Over 1,000 people joined Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Olympic sprinter and Olympian swimmer, Mark Foster, to celebrate the opening of the new Houghton Regis Leisure and Community Centre on Saturday 29 March.

Located within the Kingsland Campus, the new centre was a big hit with visitors. Over 500 families booked onto free activities to experience the exciting and modern facilities which include an 8-lane 25-metre pool, a learner pool with a movable floor to raise or lower the depth for swimming lessons and classes, and a separate shallow pool for people to gain confidence, which together provide for all swimming abilities.

The huge fitness suite with 120 gym stations and a large free weights area welcomed visitors to try the equipment and have a personal trainer session; squash players tested out the two courts, and the group cycle studio gave visitors an immersive exercise experience. Fun activities like soft play and table tennis took places in the fitness and wellness studios which will offer a range of exercise classes and activities.

As well as the sports and fitness facilities, the building has a large public café, community spaces and accessible Changing Places facilities. Outside there is a children’s play area available for visitors and the community, and a fitness trail set amongst the centre’s landscaped grounds.

The new leisure centre has been made possible by investment from Central Bedfordshire Council and a £20m grant from central Government.

The centre is operated by the Council’s leisure management partner, Everyone Active, who hosted the Family Fun Day at the weekend to mark the opening. Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Olympic sprinter and TV personality and Mark Foster, Olympic swimmer attended, signing autographs and answering questions.

To find out about membership options download the Everyone Active App or visit the website. 

Cllr Gareth Mackey, Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council, said: “I was very proud to attend the open day last weekend and see the new Leisure Centre up and running. It was great to see so many people on the day, and everyone was clearly impressed.

“The range of top-quality facilities available, as well as community space for everyone to use makes this centre a fantastic asset for Central Bedfordshire. I encourage everyone to come and visit our new centre – and find out more about Everyone Active’s memberships and classes.

“I am acutely aware that Houghton Regis is one of the most deprived areas of Central Bedfordshire and very much hope to see this new facility giving opportunities for healthy, active living to all of our residents regardless of economic capacity.”

Gary Foley, Everyone Active’s Contract Manager, said: “It was amazing to welcome the local community to this brand-new centre and show them the wide range of activities on offer. We have something for everyone, regardless of your age, interests or ability. The Family Fun Day was a fantastic success and our thanks go to Harry and Mark for playing a huge part in that. We look forward to serving the local community at this centre for many years to come.”

For more information about the new Houghton Regis Leisure and Community Centre visit the website.