The changing face of UK fitness

What is actually changing inside our gyms and leisure facilities?

From provision realignment with local communities, to shifts in facility mix and physical design, the sector is evolving at pace. Leisure DB tracks the granular projects reshaping gyms and pools open to the general public, capturing changes in provision, services and facility design.

82% of all changes per annum recorded via daily intelligence audit

149 Planning update changes in Q4 2025 vs 134 changes in Q3 2025

Public whole-site / multi-area refurbishments

These are broad schemes rather than single-space upgrades, typically described as: Major refurbishment Centre upgrade/Redevelopment works underway Multi-million-pound improvement programme

INSIGHT This reflects strategic reinvestment in ageing stock, often funded by local authorities, levelling-up grants, or capital lifecycle programmes These schemes usually bundle several facility upgrades into one project

Public gym refurbishments and equipment upgrades

Includes: New fitness suites Replacement gym equipment Expanded or reconfigured gym floors

INSIGHT Gyms remain the anchor space for public leisure centres. Investment here is about revenue protection and competitiveness vs private

Public swimming pool refurbishments

Includes: Pool tank refurbishments Plant room upgrades Leisure pool refreshes Temporary closures tied to pool works

INSIGHT Pools are the highest-cost and highest-risk assets. The volume reinforces how much public capital spend is being absorbed by essential maintenance rather than enhancement

Total Padel developments

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