Active Bolton announces £720,000 investment in two leisure centres with a promise of more to come

More than £720,000 is being invested in two of our Active Bolton leisure centres as part of a major programme to transform gym facilities across the borough.

Active Bolton is investing £380,000 at the Sir Jason Kenny Centre, Bolton One, and £340,000 at Horwich Leisure Centre with both sites set to receive new fitness equipment and refreshed gym and studio spaces.

It is the first significant investment since Active Bolton took over the running of the borough’s community leisure facilities and services on behalf of Bolton Council earlier this year.

The work forms part of Active Bolton’s commitment to improving its facilities and creating modern, welcoming spaces where people of all ages and abilities can get active – a promise it made when it became the council’s managing agent.

Neil Hutchinson, Active Bolton’s CEO, said: “Our purpose is to help more people become active, improve their health and wellbeing, and access high-quality facilities close to home. That’s why we are making a significant investment in the refurbishment of the gyms at Bolton One and Horwich Leisure Centre.

“This investment delivers the very latest fitness equipment, modern training environments, and an enhanced experience for both existing and new members. It reflects our commitment to continually improving our facilities and ensuring that Bolton residents have access to inspiring, welcoming spaces that support healthier and more active lifestyles.

“We made a commitment to invest in and improve our facilities, and this project demonstrates that commitment in action.

“These upgrades will not only transform the look and feel of our gyms but will provide more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to achieve their health and fitness goals. We are excited to bring these improvements to the community and continue supporting the health and wellbeing of Bolton residents for years to come.”

Work is due to begin in mid to late November, with painting, flooring and lighting improvements taking place ahead of the removal and installation of new gym equipment, which is expected to be completed by mid-December.

The investment is being funded through Active Bolton’s current and future profit and loss budgets, alongside a contribution from Bolton Council.

Cllr Debbie Newall, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Culture, said: “This investment is great news for residents and demonstrates our shared commitment with Active Bolton to providing high-quality leisure facilities across the borough.

“These upgrades will create modern, welcoming spaces that support people of all ages and abilities to be more active, improve their health and wellbeing, and achieve their fitness goals.

“We know how important our leisure centres are to local communities and we’re pleased to support investment that will enhance these facilities and encourage more people to live in our town centres.”

Once the Horwich and the Sir Jason Kenny Centre project is complete, Active Bolton says it will be turning its attention to its other centres in line with its ambition to completely refurbish all of its facilities across the borough.

Locals are being encouraged to keep an eye out for further announcements over the next 18 months as more details of the investment programme are revealed.