Sports and Leisure Centres

Welcome to the Sports and Leisure Centres section of the Islington council website. On the left hand side of this page you will find information covering all aspects of Sport and Leisure within Islington.

Islington Sports and Leisure News

Ironmonger Row, Finsbury and Sobell

Islington Council and EC1 New Deal for Communities have agreed plans for a 16 million pound improvement plan for Ironmonger Row Baths.

The plans allow for modernisation for the pools, space for exercise studios, an enlarged gym and refurbishment of some of the historical features of this much loved Grade II listed building whilst improving accessibility throughout. There will also be a new, flexible space for community groups, a new laundry (subject to a feasibility study), and new pool plant and services that will make the building much more environmentally-friendly and prolong its life.

These plans are based on a consultation in December 2007 to which over 900 people responded. There will be further consultation on detailed design and planning before any work takes place.

The council has decided to deliver the Sobell and Finsbury Leisure Centre projects once the economy and property market are more stable. In the mean time we will continue to maintain both centres and have allocated funding for the upkeep of the centres and for essential repairs.

You can find full details of the council's proposals by reading the full Executive Report.

Alternatively can download an FAQ document, which summarises the council’s plans for leisure facilities in Islington, from the bottom of this page.

SportIslington Website

A new website for sports enthusiasts has been launched in Islington. www.sportislington.co.uk is a one stop shop for individuals who want to find out about sport in Islington. On the website you will find information on:

• Local sports clubs
• Funding for sports clubs and individuals
• Coaching courses and training for club coaches or prospective coaches
• Resources for club development
• Local sports news

SportIslington is a voluntary group, funded and supported by Islington council.

If you would like information on becoming a member of SportIslington, please visit www.sportislington.co.uk or email sportislington@islington.gov.uk.

Swim for free at Islington pools

Young people can now splash out for free at Islington’s pools!

The initiative is part of Islington Council’s and the Government’s drive to help residents get more active as the 2012 Olympics approach, and was launched on 1 April.

The new scheme provides free swimming for under 16s and over 60s. The borough already offers free off-peak swimming to over-60s but this scheme will now be extended to all hours.

The move also means more jobs during the credit crunch, as extra lifeguards and swimming teachers are recruited by the council’s partner, Aquaterra Leisure.

Children who want free swims must register for a Free Swim Card and observe a code of conduct. Registration is already underway at Archway Leisure Centre, Cally Pool, Highbury Pool and Ironmonger Row Baths.

For more information, see the links on the right of the page under Useful Websites.