Perfect Circle sets new standard with innovative Passivhaus leisure centre in Northern Ireland
Construction has officially commenced on the £70m transformation of the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, which is set to become Ireland’s first Passivhaus-certified leisure centre and a flagship for sustainable public infrastructure.
Situated on the banks of the River Erne, the state-of-the-art facility is being delivered by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, with AECOM providing project and cost management services through Perfect Circle on the SCAPE Consultancy framework. The redevelopment includes funding of £20m from the UK Government.
The new Forum will include an eight-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, a separate learner pool and splash pad, fully equipped gym, sensory room, community spaces, a destination play park, pump track and an active waterfront - designed to support healthier lifestyles, inclusive recreation and regional tourism.
"As a global leader in sustainable design and delivery, AECOM is proud to be delivering this landmark project in collaboration with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, who share our ambition to lead the way in sustainable public infrastructure.
Passivhaus standards push the boundaries of what’s possible in energy efficiency and carbon reduction. By applying these principles to a leisure centre – traditionally high in energy demand – we’re setting a bold new precedent for net-zero carbon public buildings. This is about more than just design excellence; it’s about creating a long-lasting community asset that will support health, inclusion, and environmental responsibility for generations to come.”
Gary Walker, Associate Cost Manager at AECOM and Perfect Circle Northern Ireland Principal Regional Lead.
With construction now underway, the redevelopment is expected to generate local employment and drive skills development during delivery, and provide a dynamic, accessible well-being hub for residents and visitors. The new Fermanagh Lakeland Forum is anticipated to open in 2028.
