One Leisure St Neots!

This is the new name for St Neots Leisure Centre in line with the re-branding of all the Huntingdonshire District Council run centre’s across the district. The simple reason behind this move is to try and portrait us in a better light to the many residents of the local area who do not use the facilities. It also ties in well with the significant investments happening at St Neots. Surveys have shown that many non-users have a dim view of a “local-authority” leisure centre, and see it as a very 1980’s, basic provision. As regular users, I hope that you can understand how we are trying to move away from that perception and compete on equal terms with some of the private sector and national companies springing up on our doorsteps.

The current redevelopment is now well under way and the staff at One Leisure St Neots are working really hard behind the scenes towards the re-opening of the various facilities.

Phase one (Childrens Play Structure, Coffee Shop and new External Changing Rooms) is due to open on the 1st April 2010. Obviously this is weather dependant and the current period is crucial as much of the foundation and groundworks have been affected by the ice and snow. We have built in a slight buffer period though, so are still confident of achieving this target.

Designs for the Childrens Play Structure were received last week and a comprehensive evaluation is now underway to ensure that the best option is chosen.

Significant work is also being undertaken to re-brand the catering side of the facility, with a movement away from the traditional bar and fast food service to more of a coffee shop feel with home baking and healthy options menu.

Phase two is also now advancing quickly (Impressions, Pure Spa & Beauty, Creche and Spinning/Aerobics Studio), and to allow this to proceed as planned, the movement of the current Impressions equipment to the Scarlet Suite will take place towards the end of February. Whilst we appreciate that this is not ideal, it is the best option that is available without a complete closure. The Scarlet Suite is fully air conditioned and a very similar size to the current Impressions. It is also private and acoustically much better than, say the Sports Hall or Squash Courts.

Tenders for the fitness suite equipment are due in today and a decision on this will be made very shortly. Whatever the preferred supplier, I can assure you that it will be of the highest quality, having seen most of the options personally.

The use of the Scarlet Suite for Impressions means the biggest disruption so far with the movement / cancellation of various classes and clubs. This is regretful, but again a necessity in terms of the redevelopment.

Decisions are also being evaluated in terms of expanding the aerobics fitness programme to make use of the 2nd studio. One decision already taken is to introduce “Spinning” to the facility for the first time. This is a highly popular exercise bike class, and certainly gives a high intensity workout. Other more moderate classes are also under evaluation as well as trying to increase the usage by the teen market.

Finally the crèche staff are busy planning their new facility with new toys and educational equipment, whilst discussions with Spa and Beauty professionals are gathering pace in an exciting new provision of health, beauty and holistic well-being services through 4 state of the art treatment rooms, as well as a new “Mini-Spa” facility including steam baths, sauna, ice fountain and relaxation zone. This “wow-factor” facility will be kitted out by the same supplier to the “Aqua Sana’s” for any of you who may be regulars at Center Parcs!!

I think that gives you a pretty comprehensive update of progress to date. A new notice board has been erected in the main corridor of the Centre to also update customers who do not receive these e-mails. Hopefully in the not too distant future I will be able to forward some visual impressions of the above plans.

Best wishes for 2010 and thank you for your continued support,

Regards

Paul France

Centre Manager

St. Neots Leisure Centre