Gloucester's GL1 Leisure Centre is set to offer a 'much-improved' experience for visitors from next year, with works on the first phase of its major refurbishment getting underway this October 2026.
The 'comprehensive' improvements – part of an £8 million investment in leisure at GL1 and Oxstalls Sport Park by Gloucester City Council – include new fitness facilities with EGYM equipment, a poolside sauna and steam rooms, and kids play facilities including an interactive splash pad and climbing wall.
Phase one of the scheme will deliver a brand-new gym on the ground floor, an upgraded women's-only gym with new flooring, air conditioning and enhanced security, a new cycling studio, a specialist fitness hub and refurbished gym changing facilities.
GL1 will remain open while the work takes place, with the first phase expected to be completed in spring 2027.
While phase 2 includes the creation of a new sauna and steam rooms, relocated to the poolside, refurbished pool changing rooms and showers, a new reception and community hub and a relocated cafe.
New features for children and families will include a new interactive splash pad, soft-play area and climbing wall, while new boilers and air-handling equipment will improve the building itself. Phase 2 is due for completion in autumn 2027.
The city council and Freedom Leisure, which operates GL1, say that together, the upgrades will 'modernise the facility and support more people looking to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle in Gloucester'.
CGI artist's impressions – including new images of the sauna and steam rooms – reveal how the new facilities might look once completed.
Councillor Caroline Courtney, former cabinet member for culture and leisure at the city council, visited the centre as works began.
She said: 'It was fantastic to visit GL1 and actually hear the hammering and drilling as work gets underway.
'This is a hugely significant milestone. GL1 has served Gloucester for many years, but it badly needs investment and modernisation.
'This £8 million transformation will give our city a modern, welcoming leisure centre, with better facilities for fitness, swimming, families and the wider community.
'Most importantly, GL1 will remain open throughout the works. I’m really looking forward to seeing these plans become reality and the difference they will make for people across Gloucester.'
Ivan Horsfall Turner, chief executive of Freedom Leisure, said when the investment was announced: 'We are delighted to be working alongside Gloucester City Council to deliver this significant investment in GL1.
'These improvements represent a major step forward for one of the city’s most important community assets.
'The planned enhancements will create a more modern, welcoming and inclusive environment with improved fitness facilities alongside exciting new attractions for families to enjoy together.
'This investment will help ensure GL1 continues to meet the evolving needs of the local community for many years to come.'
Users are advised to check the GL1 website and social media channels for updates on access and opening while the works are ongoing.
