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.

The scheme at New Barnet replaced the existing ‘Church Farm’ enclosed Lido with a new site. The facility focused on Community use with Community & Learner Pools. It also incorporated a Public Library Space and a Café which is open to the park for public use together with a Fitness suite, multi-purpose studios and a 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 compliments the site context with a contemporary grace.

• 25m 6 Lane Community Swimming Pool
• Learner Pool
• Fitness Suite (85 stations) 
• 2 Studios
• Café & Spectator Seating
• Outdoor Tennis & MUGA
• Health Impact Assessment Suite
• Public Library

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.