Construction begins on Ireland’s first Passivhaus leisure centre

Construction work has begun on a transformative £70m redevelopment of the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum in Enniskillen.

The project, supported by £20 million of UK Government funding, will deliver Ireland’s first Passivhaus-certified leisure centre on the banks of the River Erne.

The health and wellbeing hub will include swimming pools, health club with a gym floor and fitness suite, community spaces for health and wellbeing activities, soft play area, sensory room and café.

Extensive outdoor amenities include a destination playpark, pump track, 3G pitch, cycling and walking trails and an active waterfront area.

Construction works are being undertaken by Graham, with completion expected in 2028. Designed by SPACE & PLACE, this project “combines innovative design, sustainability and a strong community focus to create an inclusive, ecofriendly facility that supports healthy living and community connection”.

The hub will be owned by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and will replace the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, which closed in 2025 after 48 years of operation.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, councillor Barry McElduff, said: “The beginning of construction of the new Leisure and Wellness Centre is a big milestone.

“The ambitious redevelopment of the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum demonstrates the council’s commitment to promoting health and wellbeing, creating inclusive and accessible spaces, boosting tourism and economic growth and advancing climate action.

“I am delighted that we have reached this stage and would like to sincerely thank our funding partners, contractors and project management team for their dedication and progress to date.