Oldham gyms receive makeover following £750k investment

Oldham Active (Oldham Community Leisure) is a charitable trust that has delivered leisure facilities, activities, gyms and swimming pools throughout the borough for the past 21 years.

While the charity estimates to have helped millions of customers over the decades, it has recently given four of its gyms a new look for 2024 following a £750,000 investment.

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Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, Failsworth Sports Centre, Oldham Leisure Centre and Royton Leisure Centre, are among the premises to have received a substantial upgrade with each welcoming new equipment, lighting, decor and public high-speed wifi.

The cardiovascular machines have been updated across each site with TechnoGym equipment, Oldham Active's partner and a market-leading fitness equipment provider, while its indoor cycling studios also have either new or upgraded bikes.

Oldham Leisure Centre is also enjoying a new, fully interactive gym floor cycle zone while Royton Leisure Centre is home to a new state-of-the-art sauna, following requests from customers.

The work was completed towards the end of last year though a special open day launch this week was held to coincide with Oldham Active's 21st birthday celebrations.

The boss said the makeover is more than 'a lick of paint' with more classes and extended opening hours (Image: Oldham Active)

Customers have already praised the new look, commenting on its atmospheric lighting, decor and flooring which delivers a "fresh feel" and "positive outlook".

Julian Holland, a Failsworth Sports Centre fitness member, said: “I've been coming to this centre for two years now. The gym goers are like a family.

"It’s very friendly and the staff are always on hand if you need any help or want a new programme to work towards.

"The recent refurbishment, with lots of new equipment and the new lighting, has taken the gym into the 21st century.”

Kath and Jim, who have been members at Royton Leisure Centre for 19 years, said they have both seen a "big improvement" to the gym.

Jim, who has Parkinson’s, added: “Since the refurbishment, the equipment is much better for me, I especially like the skier. 

"All the facilities suit everyone’s needs and the atmosphere in the newly renovated gym is nicer and more soothing.

"We both like the calm lighting.

"The staff, no matter what their role, are always accommodating and helpful, nothing is too much trouble for them and they are always happy to help.”

Stuart Lockwood, CEO of Oldham Active also said: “We are thrilled with the transformation of our gyms, and we’re sure that you will be impressed too.

"We’ve enjoyed hearing our customers positive feedback from the refurbishment.

“As a charitable organisation our aim is to support people to find opportunities for better wellbeing; to help achieve this we need inspiring and welcoming facilities.

"The substantial investment into our facilities means all our venues have high-quality equipment that’s easy to use, whilst creating a safe space where our customers enjoy spending time, now and into the future.

"We listened to our customer's feedback and experience to create training spaces that the whole community feel comfortable and motivated in.

“This isn’t just a lick of paint, the refurbishment, plus the new equipment, as well as our extended opening hours and our extensive timetable of classes, sports and aquatic activities, demonstrate there is really something for everyone.

"Furthermore, our dedicated, friendly team of experts is always available to assist you in making the most of your visit.”

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