Teething Problems at New Leisure Centre

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Staff at new facility coping with a variety of complaints

Northolt Leisure centre opened its doors to the public on Saturday(31st Jan) and staff have been been dealing with a number of teething problems.

Phone lines not working, not enough staff to deal with membership queries, complaints about the mixed changing room facility and a clear glass window looking into the swimming pool from the outside have been some of the concerns raised.

This multi-million pound centre has replaced the old Swimarama in Eastcote Lane North, which closed in October 2007. More than 2,200 members have already signed up to

It boasts a state-of-the art gym, eight lane 25-metre pool and learner pool as well as a wide range of community activities. There is a library, café and dance studio on site.

Whilst many users have come away impressed others are unhappy.

Comments on the Leisure Centre's own Facebook site have resulted in immediate action being taken and the clear glass window looking into the swimming pool has now been frosted.

The mixed sex changing room is not proving popular however and may not prove quite so straightforward to fix.

Comments include, '' I was disgusted to find the changing rooms were ... for everyone .. not enough showers to accommodate everyone. I shall be cancelling my membership as the mixed changing area is disgusting.''

'' I've just had to list myself as a fan of Northolt Leisure Centre but it's a bit of a contradiction. The changing rooms really shouldn't be for both males and females.''

The fact that there is no creche on site is also a surprise to many - a missed opportunity. Ealing Today has asked why this wasn't included in the plans and a council spokesperson said:

“During the consultation process there was very little indication that residents wanted to see a creche at the new leisure centre. We continually monitor our services, welcome any feedback and will consider any requests.”

The Leisure Centre has responded to the criticisms by apologising and adding:

'' We know that there have been a few teething problems, but just as we responded to concerns about the pool windows quickly, we'll be looking at other feedback too. Please bear with us - it's been extremely busy over the first few days and getting all operations in a new cen...tre like this immediately to 100% is a massive task. We are listening!''

The centre will be open Monday-Friday 6.30am-10pm and Saturday and Sunday 8am-8pm. For more information visit www.ealing.gov.uk/sports. You can also find Northolt Leisure Centre on Facebook.

Please note that the swimming pools will be open from 1pm from 2 February until 13 February for final improvements to be made, without causing unplanned disruption to users.

What do you think of the new centre?

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February 4th 2010