A Richmond leisure centre has completed a section of upgrades to its facilities to provide a more "modern" and "welcoming" space for residents.

Unveiled this week by Councillors Alan Juriansz and Julia Neden-Watts, Pools on the Park's latest improvements include a brand-new multi-purpose studio, doubling capacity for spin classes and other activities, and refurbished café toilets.

Cllrs say the investment forms part of a wider drive to promote healthier, more active communities.

By upgrading facilities, Richmond Council says its ensuring residents of all ages have access to safe, high-quality, and attractive spaces for sport, exercise, and wellbeing.

The improvements also help the centre meet growing demand and maintain its role as a key hub for leisure in the borough. 

Lead Member for Sport, Cllr Juriansz, said: "This is the start of significant investment in the health and wellbeing of our communities. 

"By upgrading Pools on the Park, we're creating more space, more opportunities, and better facilities for residents to stay active. It's about making it easier for everyone to take part – now and in the future."

Other proposed improvements include refurbishment of the gym area and changing rooms, improvements to swimming pool area and sauna and steam provision. 

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Simon Sen, GLL's Director of Operations, said: "GLL and Richmond Council are very much aligned in seeing good quality leisure facilities as key to public health and wellbeing.

"We are an experienced operator that adds value to public services because our operating model reinvests our surpluses.

"This is just the beginning. Leisure customers will notice further improvements to come in the look and feel of facilities and programmes going forward." 

Pools on the Park has been operated by charitable social enterprise GLL since October last year under a 10-year contract.

According to the Council, the investment has seen a 14% growth in pre-paid members in the first five months of the new arrangement. 

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