Work to improve our leisure centres is gathering pace following the essential ‘behind the scenes’ work we undertook after taking back our Leisure Centres in June 2023.

This included significant investment in:

• replacing pumps and fixing pipework for our pools
• bringing faulty lifts back into use
• servicing air conditioning and ventilation units
• deep cleaning ducting
• fixing boilers and doing some cosmetic improvements.

We have also addressed some long-standing issues at Surrey Docks (new pontoons on the Docks), Camberwell/Dulwich (leaking roof) and Peckham (new lift).

Current changing room improvements

We are currently working on improving the changing facilities including repairs to lockers, cubicles, ceilings, lighting, tiling, replacing showers and vanity areas. There are replacements to alarm systems and access control systems planned, keeping you safe and improving your visit.

Centre decoration

As part of the programme of general decoration across the centres, we are repainting walls, replacing ceiling tiles, repairing damaged areas and generally freshening things up! You will have seen the improvements at Peckham already and the work that is taking place in Camberwell. Dulwich, Surrey Docks and Castle will be coming soon.  

Our net zero commitment

Southwark council is committed to becoming a net zero carbon emitter by 2030. We have a huge programme of carbon reduction initiatives across our centres in support of this ambition. Included in this are:

• new pool covers to reduces heat loss overnight
• new efficient LED lighting
• upgrades to our building management system and photovoltaic panel installations are all coming in the next 12 months.

These investments are testament to Southwark Council’s commitment to addressing health inequality, by enabling more people to have an improved experience in the leisure centres, and more opportunities to continue to increase their health and wellbeing.

What’s happening at your centre?

Dulwich

• new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
• replacement ventilation system throughout
• locker upgrades
• a more welcoming reception area
• general decoration throughout
• upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
• changing room improvements
• a ‘library of things’ (tbc)

The Castle

• a more welcoming reception area
• general decoration throughout
• upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
• locker upgrades
• new televisions and display panels

Camberwell

• new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
• repairs to the heating and ventilation system
• locker upgrades
• a more welcoming reception area
• general decoration throughout
• upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
• changing room improvements
• new televisions and display panels
• A ‘library of things’ (tbc)

Peckham

• new air conditioning systems in the studios and gym
• repairs to the heating and ventilation system
• locker upgrades
• upgraded Pool Plant for a more pleasant bathing experience
• changing room improvements
• a new accessible pool hoist
• new televisions and display panels

Surrey Docks

• locker upgrades
• changing room improvements
• new televisions and display panels

A recent Sport England survey found that more than one quarter of children cannot swim the length of a pool by the age of 11. That means that they are potentially unsafe in water and at risk of drowning.

Our Southwark Splash Swim School encourages children to take up swimming as early as possible. It a vital life skill it and provides many other benefits.

10 reasons why children should learn to swim

1. Safety: Learning swimming skills can help children be safer around water and prevent drowning accidents
2. Physical fitness: Swimming is a great form of exercise that helps children build strength, endurance, and improve cardiovascular health
3. Confidence: Mastering swimming skills can boost children’s self-confidence, as they overcome challenges and learn new abilities
4. Social skills: Swimming lessons provide opportunities for children to meet and interact with new friends, developing their social skills and teamwork
5. Discipline: Swimming requires discipline and dedication, teaching children the importance of regular practice, setting goals, and working hard to achieve them
6. Stress relief: Swimming helps children relax and reduce stress by releasing endorphins and providing an enjoyable way to unwind
7. Coordination: Swimming improves children’s coordination, balance, and fine motor skills as they learn different strokes and movements in the water
8. Emotional development: Swimming lessons can help children regulate their emotions, as the water provides a soothing and calming environment
9. Cognitive development: Swimming involves learning new techniques, rules, and strategies, stimulating children’s cognitive development and problem-solving skills
10. Lifelong skill: Swimming is a lifelong skill that children can carry into adulthood, providing them with opportunities for recreation, fitness, and potentially even competitive swimming

Our swim school follows the Swim England framework offering lessons for all ages and abilities. If you’re interested in learning more enquire today or ask in-centre.

Spring is here so what better time to get out and about and find a new healthy hobby to help you de-stress. Hobbies can bring about so many positive benefits; personal fulfilment, increased social connections, improved work-life balance, stress relief and enhanced mental wellbeing. All of this makes for a healthier, happier life.

5 reasons to find an active hobby

1. Reduce stress: hobbies help us to relax and unwind from the pressure of daily life. Whether it’s gardening, running, sport, sailing, walking or something else they can divert your attention away from stressors and promote a sense of calm
2. Enhanced self-esteem: achieving goals and developing new skill sets can boost self-confidence and your self-esteem
3. Mindfulness and relaxation: Focusing on your hobbies requires concentration which can promote mindfulness and help you stay present in the moment
4. Social connections: There are many clubs that bring people together for hobbies. Here you can meet new people, build friendships and create support networks. Social connections are good for maintaining a healthy mental state
5. Increased happiness: Taking part in activities that bring you joy gives your mood an automatic boost and increase feelings of happiness. Engaging in active hobbies releases endorphins, which are mood enhancers, and can contribute to a more positive outlook on life.

Hobbies to try

At Southwark Leisure we’ve got so many inspiring active hobbies to get you moving. All are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Aqua cycling

It’s exactly what it says it is – cycling in water and you can do it in the swimming pool at The Castle Leisure Centre, SE1. It’s great fun, helps burn calories, builds core strength and improves flexibility and balance. Give this fun class a try! Call the centre for information on 020 7091 4243.

Sailing at Surrey Docks

There’s something very therapeutic and relaxing about being on water. It helps to boost our sense of wellbeing and happiness. Activities such as sailing, kayaking and SUP are not only great fun but can promote relaxation, reduce stress and provide a sense of tranquillity and connection with nature. Get involved at Surrey Docks Fitness and Watersports Centre where there are courses for beginners through to the advanced. The season kicks off mid-April so get ready! www.southwarkleisure.co.uk/activities/#watersports

 Yoga

You won’t be disappointed by the positive mental health benefits of yoga. I’m sure you will have heard your work colleagues, friends or family, raving about how good it makes them feel. Maybe it’s time to see for yourself?

Yoga, an ancient practice deeply rooted in philosophy, blends physical postures, mindful breathing techniques and meditation to create an exercise that nurtures the body and mind. What’s great is its inclusivity. People of all ages, experience and flexibility levels can enjoy yoga – it’s accessible to everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle, relaxing experience or a vigorous workout, there’s a whole range of yoga classes available across the Southwark leisure centres. Visit southwarkleisure.co.uk/fitness-classes for more information.

Badminton

If you want to get your heart pumping but the gym’s not your thing then badminton is a great choice. Badminton is a fun sport that can be enjoyed around your busy schedule and can be played socially or competitively. The sports hall at The Castle Leisure Centre has courts to hire during the day, evenings and weekends on a pay-as-you-go basis. For more information visit https://southwarkleisure.co.uk/activities/#badminton

Weight lifting

Some people view weight lifting as a form of exercise whilst others see it as a hobby that challenges you both physically and mentally. Great satisfaction can be gained from setting goals, tracking progress, and continuously pushing yourself to stronger limits. Although you can weight lift at home if you’re new to it then it’s best to seek advice from a fitness professional to avoid over exertion and injury.

Dance based exercise classes

Music, movement and friendship; there’s lots of enjoyment to be gained from dance based classes such as Zumba or the popular Les Mills SH’BAM class. Not only will you find your groove you’ll have great fun whilst getting that heart pumping. There’s a whole class programme packed full of different class styles. Check them out at southwarkleisure.co.uk/fitness-classes or download the Southwark Leisure app to book.

It can be daunting embarking upon something new so, get together with a friend and start a new active hobby together and feel the benefits of a healthy mind.