Sports Facilities Engineering in Huntingdon
For spaces where atmosphere and functionality are just as important as the walls that contain them, Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd is the firm Cambridge and the wider UK chooses. Our involvement with the leisure sector extends to designing sports halls, multi-use games areas (MAGAs), gymnasia, high perimeter fencing and various other examples, and we look forward to uncovering where your project will take us.
Working with clients in the leisure sector across the UK from our offices in Cambridgeshire
When it comes to leisure spaces, we understand that it’s not just about the structure - it’s about creating environments where people can unwind, engage, and enjoy themselves. Over our many years within the industry, the team at Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd has developed a deep understanding of what it takes to design bespoke gymnasium buildings, with the consideration of car parking, drainage, and other civil engineering requirements.
We recognise that specialist gym equipment, often heavy and subject to dynamic forces, brings its own set of challenges. Our experience means we can design spaces that accommodate these with precision, ensuring the structure is up to the task without compromising on performance or safety.
From concept through to delivery, we offer a fully integrated service that ensures every aspect of your leisure centre design is carefully coordinated. This includes structural frameworks, floor slab performance, and the integration of ancillary services that are vital for usability and efficiency. By working closely with clients, Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd delivers projects that align with budget, programme, and long-term operational goals.
We also understand the importance of futureproofing. Our sports facilities engineering expertise allows us to anticipate evolving demands, whether that involves flexible spaces, sustainable materials, or provision for emerging fitness trends. With every project, we aim to provide not only a facility that performs today but one that remains relevant and adaptable for decades to come.
Whether you are an architect, developer, or facilities manager, we provide dependable solutions that integrate seamlessly into your wider project objectives. Every scheme is overseen by a Chartered Engineer, ensuring that technical precision and compliance standards are maintained from start to finish. Contact us today in Huntingdon to discuss your upcoming leisure facility requirements and see how we can help transform your vision into reality.
Legally compliant designs
Clear heights, avoidance of obstructions, floor load-capacity, deflection criteria; these are just some of the considerations needed to meet the requirements of national sports federations. Failure to adhere to these means failure to comply, posing a threat to your licence and the health and safety of building users. Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd ensures these crucial factors are not overlooked, drawing on our deep understanding of the leisure sector to create designs that are practical and compliant.
Our sports facilities engineering specialists carry out detailed assessments of every project to ensure your leisure centre or gymnasium design aligns with both building regulations and sector-specific standards. With over 38 years of experience and more than 6,500 clients served nationwide, we have a proven track record of guiding projects safely through planning, approvals, and delivery stages. This technical reliability helps minimise risk, avoid costly rework, and instil confidence in all stakeholders involved.
We stay up to date with the latest legislation, standards, and best practice guidance within the leisure sector. By applying this knowledge to every project, we protect our clients from liability issues and safeguard building users with robust, safe environments. This proactive approach to compliance not only keeps projects on track but also enhances their long-term sustainability and reputation.
Combining aesthetics with good design
A common difficulty with leisure centre design is ensuring both structural requirements and the architectural vision can be realised. By taking a ‘people-first’ approach, we can pair your aesthetic intentions with the strength, durability, and robustness your project demands, without introducing hazardous internal features like protruding columns and in line with the requirements set out by governing bodies.
Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd works collaboratively with architects and construction teams to achieve a balance of form and function. Our analytical, detail-oriented approach allows us to integrate structural integrity with modern design aesthetics, ensuring your leisure facility looks as impressive as it is safe and practical. By blending technical excellence with creativity, we help deliver spaces that inspire activity, support wellbeing, and remain resilient for years to come.
37
Years Est.
6,500+
Clients
100+
Years' Experience
Highly regarded by our clients
Case Study: Sports Hall for
Ely Diocesen Board of Education
Working closely alongside the architect from the initial concept stage, we developed an efficient structural layout that achieved the design intention.
Peter Smith Associates Ltd. were the project architects for the design of a new sports hall in Cambridge. The project had two-storey associated studios and administration rooms.
Working closely alongside the architect from the initial concept stage, we developed an efficient structural layout that achieved the design intention. The externally expressed steel frames were aesthetically designed to create a unique appearance, whilst consideration was given to ensuring suitability for the school environment.
A steel frame was designed to satisfy Building Regulations requirements for a two-story educational building and to achieve the overall wall and building stability for the regulation height sports hall. The large clear-span roof beams were achieved with Metsec open web beams.
Careful consideration was given to the relationship of the steel structure to the perimeter sports hall walls to prevent obstructions within the hall. The robustness of the walls also ensured suitability for the sports environment and potential ball impact.
If you would like experienced civil structural engineers to spearhead your project, contact us below.
CLIENT
St. Bedes
CE School
VALUE
£3m
LOCATION
Cambridge
ARCHITECT
Peter Smith
Associates Ltd
Let’s work together towards a development that matters
Complete the form below to start a conversation about your project and release your plans with Richard Herrmann Associates Ltd.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes leisure centre design different from other commercial projects?
Leisure centre design requires specialised expertise because the buildings often house heavy, dynamic equipment, open-span spaces, and multi-use areas. Unlike standard commercial builds, these facilities must meet strict requirements from sports governing bodies, while also providing comfort, safety, and durability for users. This combination of technical, regulatory, and human factors makes the design process far more complex.
Why is sports facilities engineering important in gymnasium projects?
Sports facilities engineering ensures that the structural design can handle the unique demands of gymnasium use, including vibration, point loads from equipment, and high footfall. Without proper engineering, buildings risk premature wear, safety hazards, or regulatory non-compliance. A specialist team helps avoid these risks by applying proven methods tailored to the leisure sector.
How early should an engineering consultant be involved in leisure projects?
Engaging a consultant early in the planning process is critical to achieving a cost-effective and compliant design. Early involvement allows us to identify potential structural challenges, coordinate with architects, and streamline approvals. This proactive approach reduces delays, prevents costly redesigns, and ensures your project progresses smoothly.