Visitors to Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre can today enjoy upgraded facilities, as work continues on a wider programme to decarbonise and modernise North Herts’ leisure centres.
The members’ changing rooms have been completely transformed, with the entire area stripped out and rebuilt. New showers, lockers, benches, flooring, vanity units and mirrors have been installed, creating a brighter and more modern space designed to improve the overall experience for all users.
The health suite has also received a full refurbishment. The sauna has been replaced with a brand-new cabin and benches, and the steam room has undergone a complete makeover with new tiling, modern lighting and a fully refreshed interior. These upgrades were carried out alongside the ongoing decarbonisation works at the centre.
The gym has returned to its original space after operating from the group exercise studio since last October, giving members full access to the layout once again.
While roofing work continues over the main entrance and the pool hall - requiring a partial weekday pool closure - there is no impact on after school swimming lessons, which are operating as normal.
These works form part of North Herts Council’s £16.4 million decarbonisation programme, part-funded by £7.74 million from the government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme.
Across the district’s leisure centres, the project involves installing new air source heat pumps, solar panels, and upgraded insulation, windows and ventilation. Once completed, these improvements are expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 60%.Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment, said: "I’m so excited that the new facilities are open and already making a difference for people using the centre. The changing rooms and health suite feel so much brighter and more welcoming.
"Thank you to everyone for bearing with us while the rest of the upgrade continues — the end result will be a more modern, greener leisure centre for everyone."
Everyone Contract Commercial Manager Tim Melvin said: “We’re delighted to be opening these refurbished areas and bringing customers a much-improved experience. The new changing rooms and upgraded health suite represent a significant investment in the centre, and we’re looking forward to welcoming members into the refreshed spaces.
“We really appreciate everyone’s patience while the wider decarbonisation project continues. Once all phases are complete, the centre will be better, more modern and more efficient for the whole community.”
Everyone Active, in partnership with North Herts Council, manages the district’s leisure facilities, including Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre, North Herts Leisure Centre, Royston Leisure Centre and Letchworth Lido.
The decarbonisation project is expected to be completed by spring 2026.