Grim state of Gloucester leisure centre as 'there is no point' improving it yet
Summary
Concerns Gloucester leisure centre GL1 is “consistently dirty” have sparked calls for reduced gym rates to keep users from going elsewhere before the site is redeveloped. A major upgrade for the Bruton Way facility is planned for September but current users say they are really disappointed over a lack of cleanliness at the site amid complaints of dust and rubbish.
Details
Labour Councillor Karen James (Kingsway) asked if a reduced rate for users would be considered at the latest Gloucester City Council meeting at North Warehouse. She said has recently taken out a membership at GL1 but is highly disappointed to find the facilities and services are “far from first class”.
She told the meeting it’s “consistently dirty” and “it’s really horrible doing pilates in the studio when the floor is covered with dust”. “The centre itself is dirty and strewn with rubbish,” she said. “The floors in the studio and gym areas are covered with dust and hair and don’t even get me started on the changing rooms.
They are really unhygienic.” She also said classes are being cancelled at short notice “sometimes only after members have turned up”.
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“I was told the other day of a member who was actually in the swimming pool waiting for a lesson when she was told the chlorine level was too high and she would have to get out.” Discontent has been growing among other gym users, she added, saying complaints have been made to site operators Freedom Leisure and the council.
“Excuses have included a lack of available cleaners and that there is no point making improvements until the redevelopment takes place,” she said. Cllr James asked what is being done to make sure Freedom Leisure maintains the centre to a high standard of cleanliness and provides an acceptable level of service in order to stop members leaving for other venues.
Culture and leisure cabinet member Caroline Courtney (LD, Tuffley) said she was not sure about the offer of a reduction in membership fees and that would be something she would consult with Freedom Leisure. She explained they are aware the leisure centre is in “dire need of an upgrade” and explained the council has been working really hard to get contracts in place to proceed with the works.
“We are pleased to be able to confirm that we now have project management and contractors in place,” she said. “They are working now on the detailed designs for the first stage of the upgrade which will cover the gym, the wellness and the cycle studio areas as well as the new ladies’ gym.” She said works are due to start in September ahead of further works on the poolside.
Report source: Gloucestershire Live