New 10-year partnership begins – delivering improved leisure services in Richmond upon Thames

A new 10-year partnership between Richmond Council and Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) officially begins today, marking the start of major improvements to Pools on the Park and Teddington Pools and Fitness Centre - and is set to deliver expanded and inclusive leisure services for residents.

Cllr Alan Juriansz, Lead Member for Sport at Richmond Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome GLL as our new leisure partner.

“Their experience and community-focused approach will help us deliver modern, inclusive facilities that support healthier lifestyles and bring people together. The investment in the new arrangements is a key part of our commitment to improving wellbeing across the borough.”

The new contract, which began on 1 October 2025, will bring £3.9 million of capital investment into both centres, supporting the Council’s wider ambitions through its Leisure Strategy, Richmond Moves for a Healthier Borough (2024–29). The strategy sets out a plan to help more people lead active, healthy lives in spaces that bring communities together. The Council has also secured additional funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme to make both centres more sustainable and energy efficient.

GLL, a charitable social enterprise, will deliver a range of improvements designed to meet the needs of the local community, including:

• Upgraded facilities and equipment
• Improved accessibility and inclusivity
• Expanded fitness, swim and community programmes

Planned improvements include refurbished gyms and changing areas, new equipment, enhanced outdoor spaces and improved studio provision for group exercise. Later this year, residents will also benefit from upgrades to the booking system, making it easier to find and access activities that suit their needs.

Simon Sen, Operations Director at GLL said: “Our long-term partnership with the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames aligns our shared values around community health and wellbeing.

“We look forward to leveraging investments and our management experience to grow the reach and impact of the leisure facilities, encouraging new and existing users to live more active lifestyles.”