Gloucester’s leisure centre GL1 has been under scrutiny due to ongoing cleanliness issues, prompting calls for reduced gym fees to retain members before a scheduled major upgrade.
Despite a planned redevelopment set to begin in September, current users are increasingly dissatisfied with the centre’s condition. Labour Councillor Karen James from Kingsway highlighted complaints about dust, rubbish, and unhygienic changing rooms at a recent Gloucester City Council meeting.
“I recently joined GL1 but found the facilities far from first class,” Councillor James said. “It’s consistently dirty—doing pilates on a dusty studio floor is unpleasant, and the gym floors are littered with dust and hair. The changing rooms, in particular, are very unhygienic.”
READ MORE: Forest Green Rovers Strengthen Squad with Midfielder and Forward Signings
READ MORE: Lorry and Car Collision Causes Delays on Cotswolds A-Road
Members have also reported sudden cancellations of classes, occasionally notified only after attendance. One swimmer was told to exit the pool due to excessively high chlorine levels during a lesson, raising safety concerns.
Complaints have been directed to both Freedom Leisure, the managing operator, and the council. However, staff shortages and a reluctance to invest in repairs before redevelopment have been cited as reasons for the current state.
Councillor James questioned what measures are in place to ensure Freedom Leisure maintains acceptable cleanliness and service standards to prevent members seeking alternatives.
Culture and Leisure Cabinet member Caroline Courtney acknowledged the centre’s poor condition but expressed uncertainty about offering reduced membership fees, noting the decision would require consultation with Freedom Leisure.
She detailed the extensive redevelopment plan, which has secured project management and contractors with work commencing on gym, wellness, and cycle studio areas in September. Subsequent phases will address the poolside, changing rooms, splash pool, climbing, soft play, and sauna facilities, with completion targeted for October 2027.
Courtney admitted the interim maintenance is challenging for Freedom Leisure, given that existing fixtures are slated for replacement, and the operator has struggled to recruit cleaning staff during this period.
A Freedom Leisure spokesperson committed to addressing customer feedback with active recruitment of cleaning personnel and emphasized safety as a priority, explaining that recent pool closures were due to air handling and chemical system issues now being resolved.
They confirmed ongoing collaboration with Gloucester City Council and a commitment to investing in GL1’s future to benefit the local community.