By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
GL1 Leisure Centre’s major revamp has begun this week amid hopes Gloucester gym-goers “won’t face 12 months of upheaval”.
The £8m transformation programme aims to create a modern, enhanced leisure destination for residents, members and visitors but it will not be completed until next autumn.
The project, which is being delivered by Gloucester City Council in partnership with Freedom Leisure, will be completed in two phases.
The first phase, which is currently underway, includes the development of a brand-new gym, and functional fitness spaces alongside a refreshed women’s-only gym.
And it is expected this will be completed by spring next year which will be when the second phase starts.
A brand-new soft play facility, climbing wall and fun new water play features and refurbished changing facilities will be provided as part of the final phase.
This will also include a modern reception hub and relocated cafe with final completion expected in autumn 2027.
The Labour group welcomes the investment in GL1 which will provide a boost for leisure in the city. But deputy leader Karen James (L, Kingsway) said users need to be reassured they won’t be facing a year of upheaval while the works are underway.
“Given the well reported problems with staff turnover and centre cleanliness over the past few months, Freedom Leisure need to concentrate on customer service and keeping the centre clean whilst the works are ongoing,” she said.
“Already there have been problems with inadequate signage redirecting customers around the works area and interrupted electricity supply when contractors damaged vital cables, leaving stairwells in the dark.
“Given these initial problems, I would like to know what risk assessments have been undertaken to ensure the centre remains safe during the works. Customers need to be reassured that they are not facing twelve months of upheaval whilst these works are ongoing.”
These concerns have been put to the city council who said customer health and safety remains at the heart of this project.
“Working closely with Freedom Leisure and contractors, we have put appropriate measures in place to ensure the works are carried out safely while allowing the centre to continue operating for customers.
“This substantial investment will transform GL1, creating improved facilities and a better experience for residents across Gloucester. While some temporary disruption may be unavoidable, every effort is being made with our partners to keep this to a minimum.
“We thank customers for their patience and look forward to delivering an improved leisure facility that will serve the city well into the future.”
A Freedom Leisure spokesperson said health and safety remains everyone’s top priority throughout the GL1 refurbishment and all necessary risk assessments and safety procedures in place to help ensure the centre remains safe for customers and colleagues.
“We are keeping customers informed of any changes or disruption through a range of communication channels and will continue to do so as works progress.
“While a project of this scale will inevitably cause some disruption, we are working closely with the council and contractors to minimise impact and maintain a safe, positive experience for customers throughout the refurbishment.”
Contractors EG Carter has also been approached for comment.
Councillor Caroline Courtney (Tuffley), city Liberal Democrat culture and leisure spokesperson, welcomed the start of the project.
“It was fantastic to visit GL1 and actually hear the hammering and drilling as work gets underway,” she said.
“This is a hugely significant milestone. GL1 has served Gloucester for many years, but it badly needs investment and modernisation.
“This £8 million transformation will give our city a modern, welcoming leisure centre, with better facilities for fitness, swimming, families and the wider community.
“Most importantly, GL1 will remain open throughout the works. I’m really looking forward to seeing these plans become reality and the difference they will make for people across Gloucester.”
Iain Stark, the council’s transformation and commissioning chief, said GL1 is one of Gloucester’s most valued community facilities.
“This £8 million investment will ensure it continues to serve residents for years to come.
“These improvements will create modern, high-quality spaces for fitness, leisure and family activities, while enhancing the experience for everyone who uses the centre. It’s great to see work now officially underway and we look forward to bringing these exciting new facilities to Gloucester together with Freedom Leisure.”
Freedom Leisure CEO Ivan Horsfall Turner said the company is delighted to officially start the “exciting” refurbishment.
“GL1 plays a hugely important role within the community and these improvements will ensure the centre continues to offer high-quality facilities for people of all ages.”
And Gavin Carter, E G Carter and Co Ltd Contracts Manager, said: “We’re proud to be working alongside Gloucester City Council and Freedom Leisure on the transformation of GL1 Leisure Centre.”