The More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), an independent, not-for-profit charitable organisation, recently revealed plans for the forthcoming improvements in 2024.
Operating in partnership with Serco Leisure, MLCT oversees Barton Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, the Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, and Oxford Ice Rink.
Brian Taylor, chair of MLCT, said: “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.”
At Barton Leisure Centre, the refurbishments will see an underused storage room repurposed as an indoor cycling studio, set to offer both instructor-led and virtual classes.
Additionally, advanced fitness equipment will be installed at Ferry Leisure Centre and Leys Pools and Leisure Centre.
Known as EGYM equipment, this fitness kit provides personalised workout experiences adapting to the user’s abilities.
This makes it accessible for all users, irrespective of their capability level.
Ferry Leisure Centre will house the new BOX12 studio, which integrates boxing and functional fitness into a fully automated 36-minute workout.
A full programme of repair works, redecorations and extensive refurbishments is set to take place throughout 2024, entailing new gym equipment, improved and increased group exercise studios, and creating new family offerings.
Councillor Chewe Munkonge, deputy leader and cabinet member for leisure and parks, said: “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.”
He added: “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.”
Starting on March 30 MLCT will take over at the five centres, while maintaining a phased opening policy to accommodate cleaning and equipment installation.
Barton and Ferry Leisure Centres will be inaccessible to the public on the opening weekend, but services will resume from April 1.
Hinksey Outdoor Pool will welcome guests from April 8, while no closure phases have been planned for Oxford Ice Rink and Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, which will be open from the starting date.