Bournemouth, Eco & Environment, Education | Posted on March 5th, 2026 | return to news

Christchurch water sports centre is almost ready to reopen

After months of hard work, the Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre is set to reopen in the spring.

The centre was closed in 2020 as a result of the pandemic. Now, a local community-led charity has breathed new life into the centre, which has been renovated and repaired.

The former Marine Trading Centre will be renamed Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO) and will be a year-round wellbeing hub, offering affordable, accessible activities for people of all ages, including water sports.

Thanks to a government grant and a 99-year lease from BCP Council, HHO is now a community-owned asset, and any profits generated by the centre will be reinvested directly into the hub and local environment.

Mark Merritt, chair of HHO, said: “I’m passionate about bringing the old Marine Training Centre back to life and making it thrive again. This is an extraordinary opportunity, a community-owned site, rent-free for 99 years, owned by its members.

“With the help of a talented team and an incredible group of volunteers, we’re turning possibility into reality. Hengistbury Head Outdoors will be a place for health, wellbeing and activity — on the water and on land — in harmony with nature. I truly believe this will be a joy for individuals, families and friends for generations to come.”

Ahead of the grand reopening, HHO has organised two preview open days on Saturday 28 March (for families) and Sunday 29 March (for adults aged 18+). These days will offer visitors a chance to look at the revamped centre, meet the team and learn more about how to get involved.

HHO is seeking further donations to complete the renovations. They have organised a gala dinner and grand auction taking place on Saturday 14 March at the Captain’s Club in Christchurch. To book a ticket, visit https://www.hengistbury.org/shop/Gala-Dinner-and-Grand-Auction-Ticket-s-p808773582/

To find out more, visit https://www.hengistbury.org/.