Saunders Boston Architects worked alongside Capita and Graham Construction for the London Borough of Barnet to develop designs for two new centres in the borough. The borough-wide strategy for leisure provision included re-procurement of the leisure management contract.
This scheme at ‘Copthall’ replaced the existing centre with three Pools and 200 spectators seating. A 25m 6 lane community pool focuses on maximising the borough's high ‘learn to swim’ demands. A learner pool provides introductory shallow water to the novice swimmer. A five Court Sports Hall has also been included and offers additional dry facilities alongside the 110 stations, Fitness suite, multi-purpose studios and Health impact suite. Architecturally the new centre looks to respond to its natural ‘Park Setting’ through massing, materiality and landscape.
The form of the pool hall reflects the open green space and offers fantastic views over the outdoor spaces from the pool halls. A palate of ‘soft’ and ‘natural’ feeling materials compliment the site context with a contemporary grace.
Essential to the success of the scheme was the ‘no loss of service’ provision which ensured the existing centre remained fully operational during the construction process
- 25m Regional Short Course Competition Pool
- 25m 6 Lane Community (learn to swim) Pool
- Learner Pool
- 5 Court Sports Hall
- Fitness Suite (110 stations)
- 2 Studios
- Health Impact Assessment Suite
- Café & Spectator Seating
The Saunders Boston design for Copthall & New Barnet Leisure Centres have proven to be an immediate hit for our community. It’s very clear that a great deal of attention has been given to every part of this splendid design which looks fantastic and functions superbly. The feedback I have had from residents is extremely positive and I look forward to many years of our community enjoying these two new Leisure centres.’ Cllr Caroline Stock, Mayor of Barnet.