Three major Oxford’s leisure centres are set to receive substantial upgrades this summer, with an extensive range of new cardio and strength equipment arriving soon at Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, and the Leys Pools & Leisure Centre.
Key Improvements
- Introduction of State-of-the-Art EGYM Equipment: Ferry and Leys will feature the latest EGYM equipment, offering personalised workouts tailored to individual needs.
- Modernised Facilities: Leys will receive new spin bikes and an improved studio layout, while Ferry will see enhancements to its changing facilities.
- Refurbished Fitness Studios: All three centres will be equipped with the latest technology in their fitness studios.
- Reopened Cafes: The cafes at Ferry and Leys will reopen to provide refreshments for visitors.
- New Pool Inflatables: All centres will introduce new pool inflatables for added fun.
All upgrades are expected to be completed by September 2024.
Investment and Partnership
The improvements come as part of a £3 million loan from Oxford City Council, with a significant return expected over the ten-year contract. This return will be reinvested into other vital services across the city. More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), in partnership with Serco Leisure, operates the upgraded centres, along with Hinksey Outdoor Pool and Oxford Ice Rink.
Since April, when the new operator took over, each of the five facilities has undergone deep cleaning, redecoration, and received new signage and branding.
Statements from Key Figures
Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for A Healthy Oxford, stated: “This investment in our leisure centres reflects our commitment to the health and wellbeing of Oxford residents. We are excited about the positive impact these upgrades will have on our community. By working closely with More Leisure, we are confident that these refurbished facilities will set a new standard for leisure centres in the region. Whether you are a regular gym-goer or new to fitness, these upgrades will offer something for everyone. Don’t forget as well – if you live in Oxford and you’re 16 or under, you can get a pass to swim for free! Find out more on our website.”
Jamie Townsend, National Health and Fitness Manager for Serco Leisure, said: “The customers at Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre and the Leys Pools & Leisure Centre are going to love their new gyms! I’m especially excited about the EGYM kit coming to two of the facilities. These machines are at the cutting edge of tech in the fitness sector, providing bespoke, personalised workouts. Our customer promise is to help them make more of every day – these upgrades are all geared towards fulfilling that pledge. For details of any closure periods while work takes place, please keep an eye on your centre’s website and social media pages. These changes aren’t the end of our range of improvement work across each of the five centres in Oxford, so keep your eyes peeled for even more good news later in the year!”
Additional Information
For updates on potential closure periods during the installation, please check the centre’s website and social media pages. More information can be found at Oxford City Leisure.
About More Leisure Community Trust More Leisure Community Trust is an independent, not-for-profit charitable organisation dedicated to providing impactful and accessible community-focused leisure services. MLCT partners with Serco Leisure to manage these facilities on behalf of Oxford City Council.
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