Published: Monday, 11 March 2024

Improvements and new additions are coming to 5 leisure centres in Oxford.

More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), the new operator of Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, the Leys Pools & Leisure Centre, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, and Oxford Ice Rink, has unveiled its upgrade plans for 2024. 

MLCT are an independent, not for profit charitable organisation, which partners with Serco Leisure to deliver impactful and accessible community focused services. 

New facilities and refurbishment 

Among a range of improvement works coming this year, MLCT, working in partnership with Serco Leisure, will be introducing a new indoor cycling studio into Barton Leisure Centre, which will utilise an underused storage room to offer both instructor-led and virtual classes.  

Ferry Leisure Centre and Leys Pools & Leisure Centre will benefit from EGYM equipment, a range of high tech fitness kit, which provides personalised workout experiences tailored to the ability of the user. EGYM’s bespoke approach to exercise make the kit ideal for both disabled and non-disabled users. 

Ferry Leisure Centre will also feature a new BOX12 studio, which offers a fully automated 36-minute boxing and functional fitness workout. 

A programme of repairs, redecoration and refurbishment is planned throughout 2024, including new gym equipment, new and enhanced group exercise studios and exciting family offerings. 

Key dates and FAQs 

  • MLCT will begin operation of the centres on Saturday 30 March 2024. However, the five centres will have a phased opening period to allow for cleaning and equipment installation work. 

  • On 30 and 31 March, Barton and Ferry Leisure Centres will be closed. They will both be open on 1 April – please check websites for opening times. 

  • Hinksey Outdoor Pool will open on 8 April. 

  • Oxford Ice Rink and Leys Pools & Leisure Centre will be open from the 30 March, with no closure periods planned. 

More details about the centres and the transition, including information about swimming lessons and memberships, can be found in these FAQs

Comment 

“We are thrilled to see MLCT getting straight to work improving Oxford’s leisure centre facilities, in line with their plans. The improvements and new additions mark a new chapter for leisure provision in Oxford and will help to breathe new life into the centres. From new indoor cycling and boxing studios to new, accessible gym equipment, these improvements will empower residents of all ages and abilities in Oxford to access quality health and fitness amenities in the city. This echoes the Council’s commitment to inclusivity and quality, and moves us closer to our goal of healthy, active communities.” 

Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Leisure and Parks

 

“I’m delighted to be at the starting gate of a new era for leisure services in Oxford. It’s an exciting time for us and for the customers we’ll be welcoming to these excellent leisure facilities.” 

Brian Taylor, Chair of MLCT

MLCT operates the five centres in partnership with Serco Leisure and on behalf of Oxford City Council.

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