Gold COMPANY PROFILE
GLL
Daryll Neita, GLL Athlete who secured a bronze in the women’s 100m and a silver in the 4x4 100m relay at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games
Our purpose is to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of local communities.
As the UK’s leading provider of both leisure centres and libraries we operate nearly 400 locations all helping to make a real difference to local communities and local people.
Every penny that GLL makes is reinvested back into the business to support our social purpose. www.gll.org
Background/History
GLL was formed as a ‘spin out’ from Greenwich Council’s Leisure Department in 1993 – starting with just seven leisure facilities.
We are a staff owned charitable social enterprise – a leisure provider that follows a different, fairer and better way of doing business.
We are proud to be accredited by the Living Wage Foundation.
Key products and services
GLL operates over leisure, health, libraries and sports and legacy development.
GLL’s position as sport and leisure’s leading charitable social enterprise is built upon a solid foundation of services we provide to partners, key stakeholders and customers.
GLL helps build active and sustainable communities through partnership working. We work to a social agenda and are committed to providing accessible community facilities for all. We believe in offering value for money.
Our services are wide ranging and offer current and potential partners a range of solutions and options for enhanced service delivery, increased value for money and tangible added value through social value measurement and reporting.
We’ve been operating leisure centres since 1993 – since 2014 under our customer facing brand “Better” www.better.org.uk, and it’s probably what we’re best known for.
We are the UK’s largest public pools and public libraries provider – and the biggest provider of school swimming lessons.
USPs
We are the largest charitable leisure social enterprise in the UK, celebrating 30 years in 2023.
We operate the UK’s largest independent athlete support programme – The GLL Sport Foundation https://www.gllsportfoundation.org/ Celebrating 15 years in 2023 under our Patron Sally Gunnell, the Foundation has supported 24,000 athletes on their sporting journey since its inception in 2008, resulting in dozens of medals at international competition including Commonwealth Games, Olympics and Paralympics.
We are the UK’s largest public libraries operator – in 2023 celebrating 10 years of offering some of the best-used libraries in the country.
We are rooted in local communities, at the heart of health and wellbeing.
We produce impressive amounts of social value (£350m in 2022) – across a range of measures from physical and mental health to subjective wellbeing, to individual development and social and community development.
We operate some of the most iconic legacy facilities in the UK including the Manchester Aquatic Centre, London Aquatic Centre, Copper Box Arena and since 2022 – the London 2012 Olympic venues of the Lee Valley Regional Park.
GLL video gallery:
Plans for the next 12 months
Continue the strong bounce back from Covid, growing membership and sales. Reducing barriers to participation by maintaining our concessions and Kids for a Quid scheme.
Partnering with UK Active, Community Leisure UK, the LGA, RLSS, Swim England and SEUK lobbying central and local government for financial support to meet the ‘existential threat’ to public leisure operators from utility price rises.
Key personnel
Peter Bundey, chief executive officer
Phil Donnay, deputy ceo
Mark Sesnan, OBE, chief officer and special adviser
Phil Donnay, deputy ceo
Mark Sesnan, OBE, chief officer and special adviser
Key customers
Companies we work with include Annodata, Physical Company, Technogym, Change Please and Divine Chocolate.
Local Authorities and Agencies we work with include Greenwich Council, Belfast City Council, Cardiff City Council, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, LLDC, ukactive, SportsAid, SportsAid Wales, Mary Peters Trust, Swim England and Sport England.
Local Authorities and Agencies we work with include Greenwich Council, Belfast City Council, Cardiff City Council, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, LLDC, ukactive, SportsAid, SportsAid Wales, Mary Peters Trust, Swim England and Sport England.
Testimonial
“We made the decision to begin supporting the GLL Sport Foundation in 2015, and it is a pleasure to announce the renewal of our sponsorship with this incredible institution.
"Many bright and talented athletes throughout the United Kingdom are unable to chase their dreams of sporting glory due to lack of funding. We are passionate about helping GSF give equal opportunities to all young people and achieving their dreams of competing on the international stage.
"Our partnership enables both our brands to share the success of the UK’s most aspiring athletes who we are proud to have heard speak in such an inspirational way at our internal Sales Conferences and who have supported our marketing and brand development goals through representation and storytelling both in person and via social media”.
"Many bright and talented athletes throughout the United Kingdom are unable to chase their dreams of sporting glory due to lack of funding. We are passionate about helping GSF give equal opportunities to all young people and achieving their dreams of competing on the international stage.
"Our partnership enables both our brands to share the success of the UK’s most aspiring athletes who we are proud to have heard speak in such an inspirational way at our internal Sales Conferences and who have supported our marketing and brand development goals through representation and storytelling both in person and via social media”.
– Rod Tonna-Barthet, chief executive, Annodata
"I am so thankful for the support I have received from GLL Sport Foundation. My first individual medal ever is extremely special, and I would not be here if it wasn’t for the support, I have received from the GLL ‘family’.”
– Daryll Neita, Birmingham Commonwealth Games bronze and silver medalist, GLL Athlete
"This exciting new chapter cements the future of our six key sports venues and is part of our commitment to the many communities we serve far and wide. We have carefully structured this partnership with GLL to ensure that visitors will continue to enjoy the very best in these stellar, highly popular venues. We look forward to together creating exciting new programmes and activities that draw on the strengths of both organisations.
“These venues are part of the Lee Valley visitor experience and will continue to be so with some of the best facilities and most inspiring settings to be found anywhere. As part of the partnership Lee Valley Regional Park Authority will continue to invest to ensure that they go from strength to strength, delivering real impact for communities.”
“These venues are part of the Lee Valley visitor experience and will continue to be so with some of the best facilities and most inspiring settings to be found anywhere. As part of the partnership Lee Valley Regional Park Authority will continue to invest to ensure that they go from strength to strength, delivering real impact for communities.”
– Shaun Dawson chief executive, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority
updates & press releases
18 Apr 2024
Pioneering project boosts business in Basingstoke
Pioneering project boosts business in Basingstoke
A sports complex might not be your first thought when you’re looking for a peaceful and comfortable, drop-in workspace. However, that could soon change thanks to an innovative new project at Basingstoke Leisure Centre.
Staff there have created a designated ‘hot desking’ room where members of the public can catch-up with e-mails, write essays, conduct internet research or complete any number of administrative tasks in a quiet and private environment.
What’s more, it’s completely free for all members while non-members may book four-hour slots for just £10. And because the room is accessed via a code that changes each day, people can feel reassured that their belongings are safe.
Basingstoke Leisure Centre is run by charitable social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand. The organisation is committed to supporting the wellbeing of local communities and this initiative is part of that.
Paul Shearman, GLL’s Partnership Manager in the region, comments, “We’re ideally-situated, right in the town centre – one of the busiest shopping centres in the UK - and close to a railway station. Some of our customers might go shopping or come to our gym or a fitness class and then visit our workspace afterwards.
“We’ve had great feedback. Although there are lots of coffee shops nearby offering free wi-fi, those places can sometimes be very noisy with children crying or the clattering of cups and saucers. People tell us they like our workspace because it’s a quiet oasis.”
The project launched last year and has gradually increased in popularity as word has spread. The centre also offers conference rooms for hire on the premises and there are plans to develop a smaller meeting room.
Staff there have created a designated ‘hot desking’ room where members of the public can catch-up with e-mails, write essays, conduct internet research or complete any number of administrative tasks in a quiet and private environment.
What’s more, it’s completely free for all members while non-members may book four-hour slots for just £10. And because the room is accessed via a code that changes each day, people can feel reassured that their belongings are safe.
Basingstoke Leisure Centre is run by charitable social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand. The organisation is committed to supporting the wellbeing of local communities and this initiative is part of that.
Paul Shearman, GLL’s Partnership Manager in the region, comments, “We’re ideally-situated, right in the town centre – one of the busiest shopping centres in the UK - and close to a railway station. Some of our customers might go shopping or come to our gym or a fitness class and then visit our workspace afterwards.
“We’ve had great feedback. Although there are lots of coffee shops nearby offering free wi-fi, those places can sometimes be very noisy with children crying or the clattering of cups and saucers. People tell us they like our workspace because it’s a quiet oasis.”
The project launched last year and has gradually increased in popularity as word has spread. The centre also offers conference rooms for hire on the premises and there are plans to develop a smaller meeting room.
10 Apr 2024
‘Better’ managers get a ‘taste’ for volunteering
‘Better’ managers get a ‘taste’ for volunteering
The management team from ‘Better’ leisure centres in the Lewisham area is looking for local projects that need a helping hand.
This week, eight colleagues volunteered at the local Irish Centre in Catford, preparing a hearty, three-course meal for almost fifty visitors. Working with the charity Food Cycle, they split into two groups to prepare and serve carrot and coriander soup, vegetarian spaghetti Bolognese and croissant bread pudding.
They enjoyed the experience so much that they’re keen to find another worthy cause.
Food Cycle exists to help tackle food poverty and wastage by making meals out of locally-sourced, surplus food that would normally go to landfill. This may have become damaged in transit, might be past its ‘best before’ date or might have been over-ordered but even so, is still perfectly edible. Food Cycle provides free meals at the Lewisham Irish Centre on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Matthew Houghton, Better’s Community Sport Manager in the region, comments, “The management team thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and we would like to thank Mel and her team at Food Cycle for their patience, guidance and support. It all ran very smoothly and we were complemented on our professionalism – although we did have one of the team chop enough garlic to feed the five thousand!
“Other than that, it turns out that if we didn't have a career in leisure, catering could be our second calling! Now we’re itching to get going with our next challenge so if you know of a group looking for volunteers, please get in touch – [email protected].”
Better leisure centres are run by charitable social enterprise GLL. Supporting local communities is an important part of the organisation’s ethos.
This week, eight colleagues volunteered at the local Irish Centre in Catford, preparing a hearty, three-course meal for almost fifty visitors. Working with the charity Food Cycle, they split into two groups to prepare and serve carrot and coriander soup, vegetarian spaghetti Bolognese and croissant bread pudding.
They enjoyed the experience so much that they’re keen to find another worthy cause.
Food Cycle exists to help tackle food poverty and wastage by making meals out of locally-sourced, surplus food that would normally go to landfill. This may have become damaged in transit, might be past its ‘best before’ date or might have been over-ordered but even so, is still perfectly edible. Food Cycle provides free meals at the Lewisham Irish Centre on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Matthew Houghton, Better’s Community Sport Manager in the region, comments, “The management team thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and we would like to thank Mel and her team at Food Cycle for their patience, guidance and support. It all ran very smoothly and we were complemented on our professionalism – although we did have one of the team chop enough garlic to feed the five thousand!
“Other than that, it turns out that if we didn't have a career in leisure, catering could be our second calling! Now we’re itching to get going with our next challenge so if you know of a group looking for volunteers, please get in touch – [email protected].”
Better leisure centres are run by charitable social enterprise GLL. Supporting local communities is an important part of the organisation’s ethos.
10 Apr 2024
Sponsored swimmer supporting friend in need
Sponsored swimmer supporting friend in need
Reading resident Tash Young is launching a sponsored swim on April 15 to raise money for a dear friend who is suffering from cancer.
Over a period of three months, she will swim the equivalent of the English Channel and back – an astonishing 44 miles - at Palmer Park leisure centre. This adds up to a gruelling 2,704 lengths of the centre’s 25-metre pool.
Tash works for the NHS and is the mum of three young boys. She was blindsided to learn that her friend Sarah Brown had been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, aged just 37. Sarah is a much-loved reception teacher at Earley St Peter primary school.
Tash explains her reasons for undertaking the swim. “I am naturally a quiet person, not someone who likes to be front and centre, but this story got to me in a way that nothing else has before.
“Sarah is in her thirties, as am I, and we have children of the same age. With a roll of a die, her situation could be my situation. I am not in the position to donate lots of money personally however I can donate the small amount of time I do have to help raise money - money that will make a massive difference to Sarah and her family.
“It will go towards paying for complementary treatments, to go alongside the treatment Sarah is already receiving from our wonderful NHS. This could be the difference between her being here for months or years with her beautiful family.”
Sarah and her husband Joff have two young boys – Gabriel aged 7 and Arthur aged 5. She comments, “My family and I are completely overwhelmed by Tash’s incredible offer to raise money for my treatment. The challenge she has set herself is a massive one and I couldn’t be more humbled and grateful by her selflessness to put her body and mind through the mill for me.
“Metastatic cancer is a terrifying diagnosis, but our resolve has always been to do all we can to fight it. Fundraising events like Tash’s will raise money to help me explore all avenues of treatment, to hopefully keep me with my boys for as long as possible.”
Palmer Park leisure centre is managed by social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand. The centre’s General Manager, Rob Ansell, has offered Tash free membership to allow her to complete her challenge at no cost. He adds, “The team at Palmer Park are very sorry to hear about the sad and challenging circumstances that Sarah finds herself in and we greatly admire Tash’s gesture to help raise funds for her friend.
“Offering her the opportunity to use our pool is the least that we can do. We applaud the feat she will be undertaking and will be doing what we can to help raise awareness and assist with the fundraising effort.”
To find out more or make a donation, visit the Go Fund Me page
Over a period of three months, she will swim the equivalent of the English Channel and back – an astonishing 44 miles - at Palmer Park leisure centre. This adds up to a gruelling 2,704 lengths of the centre’s 25-metre pool.
Tash works for the NHS and is the mum of three young boys. She was blindsided to learn that her friend Sarah Brown had been diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, aged just 37. Sarah is a much-loved reception teacher at Earley St Peter primary school.
Tash explains her reasons for undertaking the swim. “I am naturally a quiet person, not someone who likes to be front and centre, but this story got to me in a way that nothing else has before.
“Sarah is in her thirties, as am I, and we have children of the same age. With a roll of a die, her situation could be my situation. I am not in the position to donate lots of money personally however I can donate the small amount of time I do have to help raise money - money that will make a massive difference to Sarah and her family.
“It will go towards paying for complementary treatments, to go alongside the treatment Sarah is already receiving from our wonderful NHS. This could be the difference between her being here for months or years with her beautiful family.”
Sarah and her husband Joff have two young boys – Gabriel aged 7 and Arthur aged 5. She comments, “My family and I are completely overwhelmed by Tash’s incredible offer to raise money for my treatment. The challenge she has set herself is a massive one and I couldn’t be more humbled and grateful by her selflessness to put her body and mind through the mill for me.
“Metastatic cancer is a terrifying diagnosis, but our resolve has always been to do all we can to fight it. Fundraising events like Tash’s will raise money to help me explore all avenues of treatment, to hopefully keep me with my boys for as long as possible.”
Palmer Park leisure centre is managed by social enterprise GLL under the ‘Better’ brand. The centre’s General Manager, Rob Ansell, has offered Tash free membership to allow her to complete her challenge at no cost. He adds, “The team at Palmer Park are very sorry to hear about the sad and challenging circumstances that Sarah finds herself in and we greatly admire Tash’s gesture to help raise funds for her friend.
“Offering her the opportunity to use our pool is the least that we can do. We applaud the feat she will be undertaking and will be doing what we can to help raise awareness and assist with the fundraising effort.”
To find out more or make a donation, visit the Go Fund Me page
22 Mar 2024
GLL retains contract to provide Dudley’s library service
GLL retains contract to provide Dudley’s library service
Dudley borough’s libraries and archives service will continue to be provided by GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited) until November 2030.
Following a competitive tender process, the charitable social enterprise has been awarded the contract for the day-to-day management of the 13 libraries and Dudley Archives and Local History Service.
GLL, which has been running Dudley’s libraries and archives since 2017, is committed to continuing to maintain and build on the service for borough residents.
It is currently planning an official launch in the coming months of Brierley Hill Library, following it’s £670,000 refurbishment, and later this year will be launching the GLL Literary Foundation, which will support talented authors who are based near local libraries.
Councillor Ian Bevan, cabinet member responsible for libraries, said:
“Libraries are a fantastic resource for local people and a real community hub.
“From providing learning and research resources and computer facilities to activities such as creative writing groups, Rhyme Time clubs and special author events, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
“We look forward to working with GLL as they continue to provide such a key service to our residents.”
Stephanie Rhoden, GLL partnership manager for Dudley libraries and archives said:
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to continue operating Dudley’s libraries and archives in partnership with the council for a further six years.
“We are really proud of what we have achieved to date, from operating throughout the pandemic in order to provide vital services to customers, to hosting Lenny Henry’s first children’s book launch and renovating Brierley Hill Library - creating a much-improved multifunctional space.
"We look forward to building on these successes in the future.”
Following a competitive tender process, the charitable social enterprise has been awarded the contract for the day-to-day management of the 13 libraries and Dudley Archives and Local History Service.
GLL, which has been running Dudley’s libraries and archives since 2017, is committed to continuing to maintain and build on the service for borough residents.
It is currently planning an official launch in the coming months of Brierley Hill Library, following it’s £670,000 refurbishment, and later this year will be launching the GLL Literary Foundation, which will support talented authors who are based near local libraries.
Councillor Ian Bevan, cabinet member responsible for libraries, said:
“Libraries are a fantastic resource for local people and a real community hub.
“From providing learning and research resources and computer facilities to activities such as creative writing groups, Rhyme Time clubs and special author events, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.
“We look forward to working with GLL as they continue to provide such a key service to our residents.”
Stephanie Rhoden, GLL partnership manager for Dudley libraries and archives said:
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to continue operating Dudley’s libraries and archives in partnership with the council for a further six years.
“We are really proud of what we have achieved to date, from operating throughout the pandemic in order to provide vital services to customers, to hosting Lenny Henry’s first children’s book launch and renovating Brierley Hill Library - creating a much-improved multifunctional space.
"We look forward to building on these successes in the future.”
22 Mar 2024
GLL supports Carers UK’s Active April with dedicated membership offer
GLL supports Carers UK’s Active April with dedicated membership offer
GLL has partnered with national charity Carers UK, in support of its ‘Carers Active April’ campaign.
The month-long initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of physical activity and highlight the benefits of moving more.
Throughout April, there will be lots of opportunities for carers to be active, with support available along the way. By signing up to Active April, carers will receive weekly online physical activity sessions, the opportunity to participate in a mass walking event, information on staying active and more.
In support of Carers Active April, GLL has created a membership offer for members of Carers UK and anyone who is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance. The promotion will run from 1st April -6th May and provide anytime access to a Better leisure facility at the discounted rate of £30 per month. This includes using the gym, swimming, fitness classes and the health suite.
There are already a wide range of existing memberships available for people in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, including the Better Flex Adult Concessionary. For £5 a month you can enjoy one free activity a month (a choice of gym, swim or fitness class) and get a discount on additional bookings.
There will also be free taster activities running in selected centres and staff on-hand during welcome days to give centre tours and answer any questions people may have.
Research by Carers UK found that 67% of unpaid carers said taking part in physical activity helped them feel more connected to other people. The Active April campaign is all about supporting the UK’s 5.7 million unpaid carers to be more active.
Peter Bundey, GLL’s Chief Executive, comments, “We recognise the vital role that carers undertake to support and improve the lives of others. As a national social enterprise that works to improve local communities, we want to offer better wellbeing and health opportunities for carers across the UK. We are delighted to have partnered with Carers UK to drive this ambition.
Helen Walker, Chief Executive, Carers UK, adds, “We’re really pleased to see GLL supporting Carers Active April 2024 with an offer encouraging carers to take up a free taster session and discounted memberships.
“Many carers find it hard to look after their own wellbeing when they’re caring for someone, but taking part in physical activity can have important health benefits - helping to decrease stress levels and connecting carers with others in their local community.
“We hope that plenty of carers will use this offer to get active, to find an activity that is manageable, enjoyable and enables them to take a short break from their caring role.”
The month-long initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of physical activity and highlight the benefits of moving more.
Throughout April, there will be lots of opportunities for carers to be active, with support available along the way. By signing up to Active April, carers will receive weekly online physical activity sessions, the opportunity to participate in a mass walking event, information on staying active and more.
In support of Carers Active April, GLL has created a membership offer for members of Carers UK and anyone who is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance. The promotion will run from 1st April -6th May and provide anytime access to a Better leisure facility at the discounted rate of £30 per month. This includes using the gym, swimming, fitness classes and the health suite.
There are already a wide range of existing memberships available for people in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, including the Better Flex Adult Concessionary. For £5 a month you can enjoy one free activity a month (a choice of gym, swim or fitness class) and get a discount on additional bookings.
There will also be free taster activities running in selected centres and staff on-hand during welcome days to give centre tours and answer any questions people may have.
Research by Carers UK found that 67% of unpaid carers said taking part in physical activity helped them feel more connected to other people. The Active April campaign is all about supporting the UK’s 5.7 million unpaid carers to be more active.
Peter Bundey, GLL’s Chief Executive, comments, “We recognise the vital role that carers undertake to support and improve the lives of others. As a national social enterprise that works to improve local communities, we want to offer better wellbeing and health opportunities for carers across the UK. We are delighted to have partnered with Carers UK to drive this ambition.
Helen Walker, Chief Executive, Carers UK, adds, “We’re really pleased to see GLL supporting Carers Active April 2024 with an offer encouraging carers to take up a free taster session and discounted memberships.
“Many carers find it hard to look after their own wellbeing when they’re caring for someone, but taking part in physical activity can have important health benefits - helping to decrease stress levels and connecting carers with others in their local community.
“We hope that plenty of carers will use this offer to get active, to find an activity that is manageable, enjoyable and enables them to take a short break from their caring role.”
14 Mar 2024
Lee Valley VeloPark announces cutting edge gym with over half a million pound investment
Lee Valley VeloPark announces cutting edge gym with over half a million pound investment
Lee Valley VeloPark the hugely successful legacy venue from the London 2012 Games, is delighted to announce a new state of the art health and fitness suite, thanks to a significant investment of more than £500,000 from Lee Valley Regional Park Authority.
Set to launch in April 2024, the new facilities at Lee Valley VeloPark will be managed by GLL, a charitable social enterprise and worker-owned cooperative, operating under the community-brand,
Better.
Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said, “We are delighted to be carrying out this investment project during Lee Valley VeloPark’s tenth anniversary year. Over the past decade more than 8.4 million people have visited this stunning venue, hugely broadening
participation in cycling. Thousands more have watched the world’s best compete at 18 major international events, introducing wider audiences to the thrills of live cycling events and inspiring
future generations.
“This latest investment to create a top class fitness suite, which is available to everyone, is part of our ongoing programme of improvement at the venue, ensuring its long term sustainability.”
Lee Valley VeloPark has a rich history as a world class venue that hosted the track cycling and BMX events during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It's the only venue in the world to have hosted Olympics, Paralympics, World Championships and Commonwealth Games in the same sport. The venue also offers an extensive programme of club, elite, community and school activity.
The brand new and accessible gym facility is designed to cater to a diverse range of fitness and will feature a comprehensive set of equipment and amenities. The gym will have the latest TechnoGym cardiovascular machines, state of the art Pure Strength resistance kit, dedicated functional training areas and a free weight area.
One of the standout features of the new gym is the inclusion of an outdoor workout space equipped with self powered kit. This innovative outdoor area will offer fitness enthusiasts a unique experience with Skiergs, a ski machine that offers a full body workout, rowing machines, and functional equipment such as barbells, kettle bells and much more, allowing them to enjoy an invigorating workout amidst the outdoor surroundings and view of the road circuit.
Gym goers will also be able to use the 1 mile road circuit for both cycling and running during programmed sessions.
Keith Griffiths, General Manager at Lee Valley VeloPark, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming project, by saying: "We’re thrilled to introduce these exciting additions to our iconic venue. Lee Valley VeloPark is not just a venue for cycling; it's a hub for fitness.
“Whether you’re a cyclist, someone taking their first steps in the gym or a fitness enthusiast, the new facilities at Lee Valley VeloPark will provide an exciting new space for you to make the most of.”
The construction of the new gym begun in early February 2024 and is set to be completed in April 2024.
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority owns three London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games venues; Lee Valley VeloPark and Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in east London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire.
These London 2012 legacy venues are complemented by a diverse mix of world class sports venues, such as the new £30 million twin rink Lee Valley Ice Centre, along with award winning open spaces, heritage sites and nature reserves, throughout the 10,000 acre Lee Valley Regional Park.
Set to launch in April 2024, the new facilities at Lee Valley VeloPark will be managed by GLL, a charitable social enterprise and worker-owned cooperative, operating under the community-brand,
Better.
Shaun Dawson, Chief Executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said, “We are delighted to be carrying out this investment project during Lee Valley VeloPark’s tenth anniversary year. Over the past decade more than 8.4 million people have visited this stunning venue, hugely broadening
participation in cycling. Thousands more have watched the world’s best compete at 18 major international events, introducing wider audiences to the thrills of live cycling events and inspiring
future generations.
“This latest investment to create a top class fitness suite, which is available to everyone, is part of our ongoing programme of improvement at the venue, ensuring its long term sustainability.”
Lee Valley VeloPark has a rich history as a world class venue that hosted the track cycling and BMX events during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It's the only venue in the world to have hosted Olympics, Paralympics, World Championships and Commonwealth Games in the same sport. The venue also offers an extensive programme of club, elite, community and school activity.
The brand new and accessible gym facility is designed to cater to a diverse range of fitness and will feature a comprehensive set of equipment and amenities. The gym will have the latest TechnoGym cardiovascular machines, state of the art Pure Strength resistance kit, dedicated functional training areas and a free weight area.
One of the standout features of the new gym is the inclusion of an outdoor workout space equipped with self powered kit. This innovative outdoor area will offer fitness enthusiasts a unique experience with Skiergs, a ski machine that offers a full body workout, rowing machines, and functional equipment such as barbells, kettle bells and much more, allowing them to enjoy an invigorating workout amidst the outdoor surroundings and view of the road circuit.
Gym goers will also be able to use the 1 mile road circuit for both cycling and running during programmed sessions.
Keith Griffiths, General Manager at Lee Valley VeloPark, expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming project, by saying: "We’re thrilled to introduce these exciting additions to our iconic venue. Lee Valley VeloPark is not just a venue for cycling; it's a hub for fitness.
“Whether you’re a cyclist, someone taking their first steps in the gym or a fitness enthusiast, the new facilities at Lee Valley VeloPark will provide an exciting new space for you to make the most of.”
The construction of the new gym begun in early February 2024 and is set to be completed in April 2024.
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority owns three London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games venues; Lee Valley VeloPark and Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in east London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Lee Valley White Water Centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire.
These London 2012 legacy venues are complemented by a diverse mix of world class sports venues, such as the new £30 million twin rink Lee Valley Ice Centre, along with award winning open spaces, heritage sites and nature reserves, throughout the 10,000 acre Lee Valley Regional Park.
GLL
Address:
Middlegate House,
The Royal Arsenal,
London,
SE18 6SX,
UK
Peter Bundey, chief executive officer
GLL video gallery:
Key personnel
Peter Bundey, chief executive officer
Phil Donnay, deputy ceo
Mark Sesnan, OBE, chief officer and special adviser
Phil Donnay, deputy ceo
Mark Sesnan, OBE, chief officer and special adviser
Key customers
Companies we work with include Annodata, Physical Company, Technogym, Change Please and Divine Chocolate.
Local Authorities and Agencies we work with include Greenwich Council, Belfast City Council, Cardiff City Council, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, LLDC, ukactive, SportsAid, SportsAid Wales, Mary Peters Trust, Swim England and Sport England.
Local Authorities and Agencies we work with include Greenwich Council, Belfast City Council, Cardiff City Council, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, LLDC, ukactive, SportsAid, SportsAid Wales, Mary Peters Trust, Swim England and Sport England.