Nineteen months after Woodford Leisure Centre closed its doors for a multi-million pound refurbishment and extension; the new-look centre is now ready to open to the public this weekend.
This Saturday (19 May), doors will open at 8am with tours of the building taking place throughout the day and taster sessions including badminton, table tennis, squash and short tennis available throughout the day. Existing members are able to use the facilities as with any other centre across the city, or there is the option to come along and pay on the day.
The multi-million pound refurbishment and extension includes new sauna and steam facilities, much improved changing facilities including a brand new changing places unit, a café located at the new entrance and enhanced parking facilities. The installation of new environmental technologies including a thermal glazing system roof will also reduce operating costs.
The centre now also boasts a newly fitted gym with brand new state of the art Precor equipment including more variety of cardio and resistance equipment. The gym will also host a new fully immersive virtual studio, with a six-metre screen, interactive lighting and audio system. This virtual studio is the largest in the UK and will deliver a variety of classes with a 30-bike spinning session, guided rides, high-intensity fitness classes and holistic sessions, alongside the traditional instructor led session.
Since its closure in September 2016, local contractor Hobson & Porter undertook a huge refurbishment of the existing leisure centre building (including replacing the roof), created a new front elevation to the building and an extension to house a new reception area, a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool and a 10-metre training pool.
Councillor Stephen Brady, Leader of Hull City Council said:
I am thrilled to see Woodford re-opening after a fantastic multi-million pound refurbishment. The centre is much-loved by the people, not just of east Hull, but across the city and I know there is significant interest and anticipation amongst residents eager to try the new facilities for the first time.
The new pools offer something new to users and are a fantastic addition alongside the already popular family fun pool.
This investment will secure Woodfords long-term future as a top swimming and leisure facility and put it up amongst some of the best in the region, providing a top-class offer to the people of Hull.
Alison Walker, Director of Leisure Services for Hull Culture & Leisure Ltd said:
We are delighted to see Woodford Leisure Centre opening its doors again. The newly refurbished centre is really fantastic and I know our customers will be very impressed. Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd, who manage the facility working in partnership with the council, are really pleased to have made a significant investment in brand new fitness gym equipment, and the new immersive virtual studio which is the largest in the UK.
Customers can book onto a facility tour, which will be on offer over the first three weeks, just turn up on the day, or book in advance on the website www.hcandl.co.uk/tryit. New fitness memberships are now on sale now.