CONCERN for the new West Drayton Leisure Centre, currently under construction, has heightened after Buckingham Group, the developer, filed for administration following pre-tax losses of £11m in 2021.

Questions are being raised over the cost of the project, further delays and the impact it will have on the community. 

As recently as February last year, Hillingdon Council Cabinet Member Susan O'Brien welcomed the deal with Buckingham Group.

She said: “I am sure [they] will lead this project brilliantly and deliver a first-class facility that residents deserve and will no doubt become a real hub for the local community.”

The opposition Labour group is questioning the level of due diligence done on an organisation that was overloaded with contracts held at pre-Brexit or pre-pandemic building budgets.

“This has proved to be unsustainable for Buckingham and will now cost Hillingdon council tax-payers more to achieve this leisure centre,” said a statement.

Labour Leader Peter Curling said: "Since the demolition of Yiewsley swimming pool in 2011, there have been inadequate leisure facilities in Yiewsley and West Drayton for the community.”

Cllr Jonathan Bianco, the Deputy Leader of Hillingdon Council, told us: “Following the news that Buckingham Group has filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, the council will be liaising with them to ensure the construction of the new Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre in West Drayton remains on track.”