Visitors to five Oxford leisure centres can now enjoy an enhanced catering experience, as five locations across the city have received a significant upgrade to their catering facilities and menus.
Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, and Oxford Ice Rink have all undergone improvements designed to modernise the spaces and offer a wider range of food and drink choices.
A key highlight of the upgrades is the introduction of Fairtrade coffee and tea that are not only organic but also Rainforest Alliance-certified and Soil Association-accredited. All hot drinks are now served in the world’s most eco cups, with a 30p discount offered to customers who bring their own reusable cup.
Rob Jennings, Contract Manager for More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), which operates the centres in partnership with Serco Leisure, said: “These enhancements reflect our commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable options for our visitors.
We’re proud to offer a catering experience that’s better for both people and the planet, while making every visit more enjoyable.”
Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion at Oxford City Council, said: “Looking after our health isn’t just about exercise – it’s about connection too.
“Grabbing a (Fairtrade) coffee with a friend after a swim or catching up over tea with a friend while the kids are in the pool can give our mental wellbeing a real boost. These new cafes make our leisure centres more social and welcoming, as well as great places to get active.”
Oxford Ice Rink now boasts an updated menu of convenient grab-and-go options, including hot dogs and doughnuts. Leys Pools and Leisure Centre has opened a new kiosk café in its recently launched Active Zone, serving a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks.
As a special welcome, customers using the free 7-day trial at Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, and Ferry Leisure Centre will receive one complimentary hot drink.
MLCT, in partnership with Serco Leisure, operates five leisure centres across Oxford on behalf of Oxford City Council.
