Residents who use Golden Lane Leisure Centre will continue to have access to high‑quality leisure facilities close to home, after a deal was struck with a London-based leisure operator.
The City of London Corporation has confirmed all existing members will be able to use Finsbury Leisure Centre and Ironmonger Row Baths, both operated for Islington Council by the charitable social enterprise GLL and both within a 10‑minute walk of Golden Lane.
The centre is closing at the end of the month, earlier than expected ahead of a major £10.4 million refurbishment by the City Corporation, after operator Fusion Lifestyle, went into administration.
Under the transition arrangements, existing Golden Lane memberships will be honoured for 12 months. Any additional costs from this arrangement to GLL, which operates under the trading name Better, will be met by the City Corporation.
Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee Helen Fentimen said:
“The enforced early closure of Golden Lane Leisure Centre was disappointing for everyone, but our priority has been to make sure residents can continue to enjoy high‑quality leisure provision close to their homes.
“By working with GLL and Islington Council, we’ve been able to secure local alternative facilities, protect existing memberships for a year, and support the continuation of key programmes wherever possible.
“This is about doing everything we can to support our community through an unexpected situation, while we invest in the long‑term future of Golden Lane.”
The tennis courts at Golden Lane will remain open while the rest of the complex is closed. Meanwhile, GLL will work closely with the City Corporation to accommodate as many existing programmes and user groups as possible, subject to availability – including swimming clubs, older people’s activities, SEND sessions and fitness classes.
GLL is one of the UK’s largest charitable leisure operators and runs over 100 facilities across London. It will continue to work with City Corporation officers to ensure a smooth transition for members and clubs, with further details shared directly with users as arrangements are confirmed.
