Client requirements

The building, constructed in the 1980’s, required significant modernisation to improve provision for the local community. The rationale to support the refurbishment was that better facilities would raise levels of participation and increase income to provide financial sustainability.

 

Design and planning

CREATEABILITY assisted Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), the operating Trust, to construct a realistic, achievable schedule of works. This necessitated an initial period of closure during which the ground floor was refurbished to provide an operational reception area, café and crèche. It was followed by work in individual zones screened off from public access with the majority of the centre remaining open thus minimising loss of revenue. The entire programme lasted 8 months in total.

 

Construction phase

“This was a major project and the logistics of moving activities around so the Centre could remain open was a concern in terms of site security, partly because of the number of subcontractors involved also the fact that the building was being used by the public. CREATEABILITY’s on site communication was particularly good and as a result no real problems arose”, says Mathew Boardman, GLL’s Regional Manager for the Lambeth Partnership.
 
After the completion of the ground floor two areas were improved on the floor above. Children’s activities were upgraded; soft play and a play system were added. In the pool area a new team changing area, wet side changing, poolside showers, steam and sauna were created.

 

The top two floors were dedicated to fitness. A 140-station gym was installed over both floors featuring specialist zones such as a circuit area, aerobiking studio and group exercise.

 

Results

“The refurbishment has made a huge difference, resulting in an exceptional improvement in the fabric of the building, which has created a totally different and very positive ambiance. To date we have met income and participation targets”.