Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre closed after RAAC found

Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre, in Ilford high street, has closed with immediate effect after dangerous concrete was found <i>(Image: Google Maps)</i>
Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre, in Ilford high street, has closed with immediate effect after dangerous concrete was found (Image: Google Maps)
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A leisure centre in Ilford has closed with immediate effect after dangerous concrete was found in parts of the building.

Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre, in Ilford High Street, has temporarily closed after engineers identified reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) during a structural inspection.

There is no "immediate risk", according to the centre's operator Vision RCL and owner Redbridge Council, but RAAC can weaken and eventually collapse if it is exposed to moisture .

The leisure centre - built in the 1960s - is therefore shutting immediately as a "precautionary measure" while further assessments and works are carried out.

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In a statement, Redbridge Council said: "We know how frustrating and disappointing this closure will be — particularly for those who regularly use the spa, gym, swimming pool, and group fitness classes at Fullwell Cross.  

"This decision has not been made lightly.

"The safety and wellbeing of our customers and staff is our top priority.

"We truly appreciate your understanding, your patience, and your continued support during this time."

All memberships for the leisure centre will be frozen automatically, and later cancelled once the freeze period is over, the council says.

Those who want to continue their memberships at another centre should email or let the front-of-house team know.

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Other centres still open in the borough include Wanstead Leisure Centre, Mayfield Leisure Centre, Woodfood Green Library & Gym, The Gym at Redbridge Drama Centre, and Loxford Leisure Centre.

Vision RCL is reviewing moving swimming lessons to Loxford, Mayfield, and Caterham School pools and relocating group exercise classes.

Customers will be updated on timescales for necessary works, according to the council statement, and will be welcomed back when it is safe to do so.

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