Revitalised Pavilion at Leatherhead Leisure Centre Brings Grassroots Football Back to Life
In March 2024, GLL made the decision to reinstate a long-disused 11-a-side football pitch on the Leatherhead Leisure Centre estate. This area, adjacent to the main building, had remained unused for over 8 years under the previous operator, Fusion Lifestyle.
Recognising the community potential, GLL invested in restoring the pitch and installing new goalposts. However, with no changing or toilet facilities available, interest from local teams was limited. The old pavilion, which once supported the pitch, had deteriorated significantly — it was structurally unsound, lacked fire exits and a fire alarm, and was generally unfit for use.
Together with Mole Valley District Council, GLL applied for a Football Foundation grant and in February 2025 were awarded £24,704 towards the project. With refurbishment costs totalling £38,600, the remaining £13,896 was jointly funded by GLL and Mole Valley.
Work began in May 2025 but was briefly delayed by the discovery of a 10-year-old bees’ nest hidden in the pavilion walls. The bees were safely relocated to a local beekeeping club, and after just a two-week delay, the refurbishment continued.
Upgrades included:
- New fire alarm and detection system
- Addition of three fire exits
- LED lighting throughout
- New flooring, showers, seating, and doors
- A refreshed kitchen to support weekend refreshments
- Exterior repairs including guttering, roof repainting, and updated cladding
The pavilion officially reopened on 10th September 2025, just in time for the football season. The impact has been immediate — bookings for 2025/26 have risen by over 300% compared to the previous year, with nearly 80 pitch bookings already confirmed.
The refurbishment has also transformed the experience for the weekly Leatherhead Junior Parkrun, which attracts 80+ children every Sunday morning. Having on-site toilets and changing facilities has made a huge difference for participants and organisers alike.
This project shows the power of partnership — with GLL, Mole Valley District Council, and the Football Foundation working together to revive a much-loved community facility.