The transformation of GL1 is underway, with work now officially started. Throughout October, you’ll begin to see some of the exciting changes really taking shape as phase 1 progresses.
When the transformation is complete in Autumn 2027, customers can look forward to an even better experience, with fantastic new facilities designed to help more people enjoy being active, having fun and improving their wellbeing.
This webpage will be your go-to destination for the latest updates on the GL1 transformation project, with regular news and information as the works progress. We’ve also put together a helpful FAQ section at the bottom of this page to answer some of the questions you may have about the project.
New gym
Our brand-new gym will be relocated to the ground floor within the former spa area, creating a spacious, modern fitness environment designed to transform the way our customers train. With improved accessibility, an enhanced layout and a wider range of equipment, the new gym will offer something for everyone, whether you're new to fitness or a seasoned gym-goer.
The new facility will feature an extensive range of cardio equipment, resistance machines, pin-loaded and plate-loaded stations, as well as multiple lifting platforms and dedicated functional training space. We're also introducing EGYM smart fitness equipment, giving customers real-time guidance and personalised support to make every workout simple, effective and tailored to their individual goals.
Women's only gym
Following valuable feedback from our customers, we're delighted to be creating a new dedicated Women's only gym in a completely new location within GL1. Unused space within the leisure centre will be transformed into a modern, welcoming and comfortable fitness environment.
The new facility will feature upgraded fitness equipment, new flooring, refreshed décor, air conditioning and enhanced security features, creating a space where women can exercise with confidence and comfort. The relocation also allows us to repurpose the original Women's only gym into a dedicated indoor cycling studio, helping us provide even more fitness opportunities for our customers.
New indoor cycling studio
Pedal your way to fitness in our brand-new cycling studio, designed to deliver an enhanced indoor cycling experience. Featuring immersive LED lighting, an upgraded sound system and a motivating studio environment, every ride will feel more engaging and energising.
To make it even easier to fit fitness into your busy schedule, we'll also be introducing virtual cycle classes, giving customers greater flexibility and convenience with more opportunities to ride throughout the day.
New functional fitness hub
We're transforming our existing gym into a functional fitness hub, creating a destination for all fitness levels and exercise interests. Customers will enjoy a dedicated functional training space featuring a sled track, ski ergs, lifting racks, air bikes and more. We will also introduce a dedicated Abs & Glutes zone, featuring specialist equipment designed to help customers target and strengthen key muscle groups more effectively.
Think dynamic group exercise classes, tailored personal training sessions and specialist wellbeing programmes delivered alongside our Healthy Communities team, all within a revitalised space designed to support every fitness goal, ability level and stage of life.
Improvements to dry side changing facilities
Our renovated dry side gym facilities will boast modern fixtures and fresh decor, providing a positive experience for all customers.
You will see new flooring, new lockers, sinks, showers and vanity units. It's the little improvements that will make a big difference to your comfort, convenience and overall experience at GL1.
Phase two of the project - Starting spring 2027
Phase two of the transformation will focus on the pool areas and customer experience spaces, delivering a range of exciting improvements for families, swimmers and visitors. This phase of the project will start in Spring 2027 with completiton in Autumn 2027.
Customers can look forward to:
- A brand-new splash pad, creating an interactive water play experience for younger visitors
- New poolside sauna and steam rooms to support relaxation and wellbeing
- Fully refurbished wetside changing rooms and showers with modern fixtures and finishes
- A new reception and community hub, creating a brighter and more welcoming arrival experience
- A relocated café area, providing a more social and accessible space to meet and relax
- A new soft play area, offering even more fun for families and children
- A new climbing wall, giving children the chance to learn new skills and build confidence
-
Behind the scenes, we'll be installing new boilers and air handling units, while refurbishing existing systems as part of our ongoing sustainability programme, following the centre-wide lighting upgrade completed earlier this year.
Together, these improvements will create a more modern, welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone who visits GL1.
Phase 2 images
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. GL1 Leisure Centre will remain open throughout the refurbishment, although there may be some temporary changes to how certain areas or facilities operate as the works progress.
We’ll keep customers updated about any changes or disruption through our social media channels, the Freedom Leisure app and email communications to members.
There may be periods during the refurbishment when individual pools need to close temporarily, but we do not anticipate all pools being closed at the same time. This means there will continue to be options available for swimming throughout the project.
During Phase 2, changing facilities will also be limited at certain times. Where required, we’ll encourage customers to arrive ‘beach ready’ to help make visits as easy as possible.
We’ll communicate any changes in advance wherever possible.
Phase 1 began in September 2026 and is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in spring 2027 and is expected to run through until autumn 2027.
Yes. Group exercise classes will continue as normal, although we may need to temporarily relocate some classes at certain points during the refurbishment.
Any changes will be communicated through our social media channels, the Freedom Leisure app and email communications to members.
The women’s only gym forms part of Phase 1 of the refurbishment, which is scheduled to run until spring 2027.
The new-look women’s only gym is therefore currently expected to open in spring 2027.
No. Our opening hours will remain the same throughout the refurbishment.
Should there be any exceptional circumstances that require a temporary change, we’ll communicate this with customers.
Yes. Our contractor has a dedicated compound within the GL1 car park, which means the number of available parking spaces will be reduced while the works are taking place.
We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank customers for their patience and understanding throughout the refurbishment.
We do not anticipate any significant changes to swimming lessons, and lessons are expected to continue throughout the refurbishment.
During Phase 2, there may be times when changing facilities are limited, so customers may be asked to arrive ‘beach ready’ for their lesson.
If an individual pool is temporarily unavailable, we will aim to relocate affected swimming lessons to another of our pools at GL1 wherever possible.
Any changes will be communicated to customers in advance.
If you have a question about the refurbishment that isn’t answered here, please email [email protected] and the team will be happy to help.
Not found what you need?
If you need help with anything, please visit our help centre or get in touch!
Join the GL1 team!
Exciting times are ahead at GL1 Leisure Centre and we're looking for great people to join our team as we embark on an exciting new chapter.
Whether you're an experienced fitness professional, a passionate group exercise instructor, an aspiring swim teacher, a qualified lifeguard or an experienced duty manager, we'd love to hear from you. We're also keen to speak with people who are looking to start a career in the leisure industry and want to make a real difference in their local community.
If you're enthusiastic, customer-focused and passionate about helping people live healthier, happier lives, get in touch. Send us a message and we'll be happy to chat about the opportunities currently available and even if we don't have anything right now - we will keep you updated when we do!
We are hiring! Come and join the team
The leisure services we operate are highly valued and make a real difference to peoples' health and wellbeing on a very local level. Working for Freedom Leisure allows you to play a very positive, local role, improving lives through leisure and making a genuine difference in your community.