Royston Leisure Centre welcomed more than 800 visitors on Saturday (June 20) as the town celebrated the completion of a major refurbishment with a free community open day.
TV personality and Team GB sprint relay star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey was on hand to mark the occasion, cutting the ribbon on the centre's new gym extension alongside Cllr Keith Hoskins, Chair of North Herts Council.
The event marked the completion of a major decarbonisation and refurbishment programme at the centre, delivered in partnership with North Herts Council, which has included a £1.8 million gym extension that has more than doubled the gym's size.
The pool changing village has also been completely refurbished, with new lockers, mirrors and vanity units creating a fresher, more modern space for members, while reception has been upgraded too, including improvements to the food and drink offering.
Crowds turned out throughout the day to try out the transformed facilities, with free activities on offer including family and lane swimming, inflatables, fitness classes, wheelchair basketball and pickleball.
Harry also took time to meet visitors across three packed meet and greet sessions, signing autographs and posing for selfies with fans of all ages.
The event also drew a host of community organisations, with stalls from Parkinson’s UK, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and the police among those setting up on site throughout the day.
Harry, who previously visited Royston in September 2024 shortly after Everyone Active took over the leisure contract, said: "It's amazing to see what's been achieved here. When I visited back in 2024 the work hadn't yet begun, so to come back and see the finished gym is great, it's a completely different place. The community deserve it and I hope it inspires people to get active and make the most of what's right on their doorstep."
Daniel Peddar, General Manager at Royston Leisure Centre, said: "To see so many people come through the doors on Saturday was really special. This has been a long time in the making and it was wonderful to celebrate it properly with the community.
“The new gym has transformed what we're able to offer, and days like Saturday are exactly why we do what we do. We hope everyone who came along left feeling inspired to come back."
Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment at North Herts Council, said: “It was great to see so many people coming along to enjoy the open day and see the improvements that have been made at Royston Leisure Centre. This has been a significant investment and it’s fantastic to see the new facilities already being enjoyed by local residents.
“As well as creating a better experience for people using the centre, the work we’ve carried out will help make the building more energy efficient and support our wider commitment to reducing carbon emissions across North Herts. It was a brilliant day and really nice to see the community coming together to celebrate.”
Royston Leisure Centre is operated by Everyone Active on behalf of North Herts Council.