The first phase of a major £7.5m upgrade of the facility has now been completed

Cutting the ribbon on the reopening of Edmonton Leisure Centre, from left; council leader Ergin Erbil, cabinet member Sabri Ozaydin, and GLL chief exec Peter Bundey

Edmonton Leisure Centre has finally reopened after a closure of nearly 17 months.

The reopening yesterday (Monday 28th) saw residents visiting the Fore Street facility for this first time since December 2023.

The centre had initially been closed upon the transfer of all Enfield Council leisure centres from previous managers Fusion Lifestyle to new operators Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), to allow for an inspection, but after a series of major maintenance issues were discovered it was realised that significant repairs would be needed before reopening.

A multimillion-pound repairs programme had been underway since last autumn when the council struck a £7.5m deal to fix and upgrade the facility, although it meant the civic centre giving up the lease to the building.

GLL, under its brand name Better, has now launched a new gym, fitness studio and a group cycle studio, with the centre’s sports hall and soft play also reopened. The pool, which requires more work, will be reopened in “late summer”.

The new and upgraded facilities are “designed to meet the needs of the local community and support residents in achieving their health and wellbeing goals”.

Sabri Ozaydin, the council’s cabinet member for placemaking and climate action, said: “We know how much the community has missed Edmonton Leisure Centre and how vital it is to the health, wellbeing and social life of local people. That’s why we’ve worked closely with our colleagues at GLL to get the centre back open as soon as possible.

“We can’t wait to welcome residents back to use our upgraded gym facilities, which include a new changing village, fitness class studio, group cycle studio, and more. The new gym and group exercise spaces will provide accessible and inclusive options for people of all ages and abilities, helping to create a healthier and more active Edmonton.”

Vishal Karia, GLL’s partnership manager for Enfield, added: “We’re thrilled to be reopening Edmonton Leisure Centre in partnership with Enfield Council. This is a much-needed facility that plays a key role in the everyday lives of so many people.

“Whether you’re new to fitness or a long-time gym goer, there’s something here for everyone. We’re especially pleased to bring back the soft play area, giving families a fun and safe space to enjoy.”

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