Birtley leisure centre to become Better with £250,000 investment

GLL - the charitable social enterprise that operates Better leisure centres in Gateshead – has announced that it will take over the running of Birtley Leisure Centre from Gateshead Council on 1 April 2026.

As part of the transfer, GLL is set to invest over £250,000 to support an extensive overhaul of the facility. The investment will see the introduction of state-of-the-art Technogym cardio and strength equipment, new bikes for the spin studio and an overall upgrade of the interior and existing saunas.

The investment follows on from a programme of major refits at Gateshead's Blaydon, Dunston, and Heworth leisure centres as well as Gateshead International Stadium after the successful transfer of operations from the Council to GLL in 2025. These improvements have delivered significant savings for the council whilst enhancing the experience of leisure centre visitors.

Programmes such as fitness classes and personal training sessions will initially remain the same, but future plans include the introduction of new sessions and initiatives such as the Healthwise Programme – an exercise referral scheme designed to help inactive people or those with long-term health conditions safely increase their physical activity.

The leisure facility will temporarily close for refurbishment from Wednesday 1 until Tuesday 7 April. Current Birtley Leisure Centre members will be able to access any of GLL’s Gateshead gyms while the works are being completed.

Councillor Angela Douglas, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism at Gateshead Council, said: "It’s fantastic to see another leisure centre in Gateshead becoming Better. Our growing partnership with GLL is underpinned by our commitment to provide accessible and affordable opportunities for Gateshead communities to get active.

“By bringing new and state-of-the-art equipment to Birtley, we hope to attract even more members to benefit from the range of classes and activities for all ages. It’s also fantastic to see the Healthwise programme being introduced, which will see people who have never considered the gym as being a space for them welcomed and supported into the Better family.”

Scott Holmes, Gateshead Partnership Manager at GLL, said: “Birtley Leisure Centre is a hugely valued community facility, and we’re excited to begin this next chapter. Our planned investment will transform the look, feel and functionality of the centre, creating a modern, welcoming space equipped with the very latest Technogym fitness technology.

“We’ve listened to what local people want from their leisure facilities, and this refurbishment is about delivering a high-quality environment that supports everyone – whether they’re new to exercise, returning after a break, or training regularly. By enhancing accessibility, extending opening hours and introducing new programmes over time, we’re ensuring the centre is fit for the future and continues to serve the community for many years to come.”

When the site re-opens, times will also be extended from 7am until 9pm Monday – Thursday and 7am–7pm on a Friday giving members greater flexibility. In the short-term, weekend hours will remain the same (8.30am–2.45pm).