New Addington’s brand new multi-million pound leisure and community centre celebrated its official opening yesterday with an evening of live music, performances and demonstrations showcasing the stunning new facilities.

Centre-users, community members and guests were treated to dazzling displays from Beeja Dance Company and local musician Silvastone, along with demonstrations from an array of sporting groups and individuals.

Among them were Commonwealth Bronze medallist GLL Sports Foundation (GSF) wrestler, Syerus Eslami and Rayen Cupid, GSF weightlifter - both Croydon residents.

Also wowing the crowds were synchronised swimming troupe Aquabatix; New Addington Short Mat Bowls Club; Addington Judo Club; and New Addington Table Tennis Club.

Councillor Oliver Lewis, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, said: “I’m delighted to formally open the new New Addington Leisure Centre – it’s a stunning space with first-class facilities, inclusive and accessible to all, with something for everyone in New Addington’s diverse community, whether they want to keep fit or socialise with friends and family.

"It’s great to see so many people enjoying it already - it’s going to make a real difference to the community.”

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The leisure centre, with extended sports and leisure facilities, includes a 25-metre, six-lane main swimming pool and a learning pool, an extensive fitness suite, sport halls and multi-purpose activity studios – hosting all the latest branded classes. The on-site cafe will provide post-workout refreshments.

The new development also offers flexible spaces that can be enjoyed by the community, including two halls with capacity for around 300 people, with a kitchen, bar, and storage rooms.

In addition eight family homes will be built, fronting onto Chertsey Crescent.

Simon Sen, regional director, GLL, said: “We are proud to open New Addington Leisure Centre, in partnership with Croydon Council.

"As a social enterprise, we are committed to providing outstanding leisure facilities and services, to improve lives in the communities that we serve.

"This fantastic new facility will allow us to reach even more local people, to improve health and wellbeing by getting active and we are expand we are excited to welcome both new and existing customers.”