Kingfisher Leisure Centre closure - Frequently Asked Questions
Updated (08/03/2023)
Kingston Council remains committed to building a new swimming and leisure centre in Kingston town centre.
At the same time, the country’s financial situation has had an unprecedented impact on budgets. Specifically, uplifts in the costs of construction, labour and energy, together with the impact of stretched supply chains across the country, mean that the council is now taking the responsible step of revising plans for the centre.
Revising the specification for the new centre is the prudent and responsible next step to help manage national financial pressures outside the council's control.
This decision comes after careful consideration and exploration of costs. The council's commitment to building a new leisure centre on the same site as the previous centre in Kingston town centre remains unchanged.
Read more information on our website:
For the most up to date information on the new community leisure complex visit Transform Kingston.
Previous information and FAQs
What issues have come to light, causing the centre to close?
The swimming pool at the Kingfisher Leisure Centre was initially closed for routine maintenance. During the works concerns were raised about the structural integrity of the roof which required further investigation.
Why has the council taken the decision to close the centre?
We do not take closing our facilities lightly and have closed it as a precautionary measure for the safety of users and staff. The site has 24hr security to prevent anybody from attempting unauthorised access to the building. As a further precaution an exclusion zone has been put in place around the Kingfisher Leisure centre.
What are future plans for the site?
The Cattle Market site, including the Kingfisher site, was identified as a potential redevelopment site through the public 'Call for Sites' consultation in 2017 in preparation for the Local Plan. The scope of the potential redevelopment includes housing, retail, business and leisure uses. When the council considers the outcome of the structural survey on the Kingfisher one of the options may be to bring forward the Cattle Market site redevelopment opportunity sooner. This would be considered alongside other costed options.
Where can I go while the centre is closed?
You can find your nearest alternative centre by visiting the Places Leisure website placesleisure.org/find-centre.
Will my membership card work for other leisure centres in Kingston?
Yes, your membership card will work at our other leisure centres. More information about membership can be found on the place leisure website.
Do I need to do anything with my membership in order to get access to other facilities?
You will not need to complete a new health commitment statement if you already had completed one as part of your Kingfisher Membership. Junior members will require a new form to be completed, and a brief induction before being able to use facilities.
Can I freeze my membership temporarily?
You are able to freeze your membership, free of charge. Please contact Harlands, our dedicated membership team by emailing placesleisure@harlandsgroup.co.uk or by calling 01444 221052. Phone lines are monitored from 8 am until 8 pm Monday to Friday and from 8 am until 12 pm on Saturday. Access reflects your normal membership rights, and all facilities are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.
I have a premium membership - what are my options?
As a premium member, you are still able to access our other local leisure centre facilities at The Malden Centre, Tolworth Recreation Centre and Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre. Simply take your membership card to the centre and you can book classes as normal online.
I am a swim Only member - what are my options?
As a swim-only member, you are still able to access our other local swimming pool at The Malden Centre.
I am a gym-only member - what are my options?
As a gym-only member, you are still able to access our other local leisure centre facilities. Simply take your membership card with you.
I am a pay-as-you-go member - what are my options?
As a Places member that enjoys pay-as-you-go for access to Kingfisher Leisure Centre, you are still able to visit our and other local leisure centre facilities on a similar basis. Find out more about what’s available, timetables, opening hours and their locations below:
Malden Centre
Tolworth Recreation Centre
Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre
Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Centre
Putney Leisure Centre
Tooting Leisure Centre
Chessington Sports Centre
We have worked with the instructors to relocate your fitness classes where possible.
Malden Centre
Tolworth Recreation Centre
Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre
Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Centre
Putney Leisure Centre
Tooting Leisure Centre
Chessington Sports Centre
My children have swimming lessons at Kingfisher Leisure Centre, what happens now?
As you pay for your swimming lessons by Direct Debit we will automatically adjust your payments, ensuring that no payments are taken during the closure. Whilst our Swimming lessons are on hold, there are nearby centres that you and your family can use to keep active. Find out more about what’s available, timetables, opening hours and their locations below:
Malden Centre
Tolworth Recreation Centre
Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre
Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Centre
Putney Leisure Centre
Tooting Leisure Centre
Chessington Sports Centre