Big Changes Coming to Better Leisure Centres in Cornwall

Major gym upgrades set for September and beyond

Better leisure centres across Cornwall are undergoing a £559,000 refurbishment starting on 16 September, bringing a host of new fitness equipment and fresh facilities to eight centres across the region.

The investment, part of a long-standing agreement with Cornwall Council, will see a variety of fitness improvements, including new functional fitness areas at centres in Saltash, St Ives, St Austell and Bodmin. Alongside the equipment updates, some centres will also receive building and flooring enhancements, while all gyms are set to be re-branded for a modern look and feel.

What’s Changing at Your Local Gym?

According to James Curry, Head of Service at GLL, the operator behind the Better brand, the refurbishment is guided by customer feedback. “We asked our customers what they wanted, and their responses have helped shape our plans,” said James.

The upgrades will focus on improving health and well-being, with new Techno Gym equipment replacing the majority of existing cardiovascular machines. The investment also extends to a broader range of fitness options catering to all age groups, including the rapidly growing under-18 and over-65 categories.

James emphasised the importance of fitness for both physical and mental health, ensuring the new equipment will meet current and future needs of Cornwall’s residents.

Which Centres Are Getting an Upgrade?

The refurbishment will impact centres in Bude, Saltash, Liskeard, St Austell, Bodmin, Newquay, Helston, and St Ives. However, Truro Leisure Centre is not included in this wave of improvements, as it is being considered for a separate project.

Ben Wilkinson, Senior General Manager at GLL, confirmed the upgrades will take place in phases, with Bodmin, Bude, Helston, and Saltash expected to be completed by the end of October, and the remaining centres finishing by early November.

“We’re adopting a phased approach and will be doing our best to keep any disruption to a minimum,” said Ben, adding that centre launch events will be announced in October.

More Info on the Refurbishment

Customers are encouraged to stay informed on the progress of the upgrades and launch events by visiting the Better website.

With work wrapping up ahead of Christmas, fitness enthusiasts can look forward to using the new equipment soon.

What to Expect in the New Classes

As part of the overhaul, new fitness classes will be introduced for both gyms and studios. The updates don’t stop at equipment, as staff are also being trained to deliver a fresh range of classes, ensuring a comprehensive upgrade to the fitness experience at Better leisure centres.