Deal signed to run restored Oasis leisure centre

A deal has been signed with the former provider of an iconic leisure centre to run it again if it reopens.

The Oasis in Swindon, Wiltshire, famous for its lagoon pool under a domed roof, opened in 1976 but has fallen into disrepair since closing in 2020.

Last year, Swindon Borough Council's planning committee approved plans to refurbish the Oasis but refused permission to build 700 flats, which means its future is still up in the air.

Social enterprise GLL previously managed the Oasis before handing it back to owners Seven Capital saying it was no longer a viable business, but it has agreed it would now resume responsibility for running the centre in the future.

The leisure centre was a popular multi-purpose venue, with its lagoon style swimming pool said to have inspired Britpop band Oasis.

The facility also had other sports facilities and previously hosted concerts and plays. Campaign group Save Swindon Oasis was unsuccessful in securing Asset of Community Value status, but managed to to get it a Grade II listing.

In 2025, Seven Capital made a planning application to demolish the existing sports hall and replace it with 700 flats, as well as building a new gym, bowling alley and crazy golf facilities.

The plan to refurbish the leisure centre, which included keeping the swimming pool and dome was approved, but the plan with the flats was rejected by the council.

At the time, council leader Jim Robbins vowed to overcome the "significant stumbling block" by working with the developer to "find solutions".

Before this setback for the owners, it was thought that the leisure centre could open in 2026, but its future now remains uncertain, with Seven Capital expected to submit a revised planning application.

Peter Bundey, CEO of GLL, said: "Signing this agreement with Seven Capital is a significant step forward for community leisure facilities in the town.

"We understand how important the Oasis is to local residents, and we're delighted to play a key role in its revitalisation and long-term success."

Damien Siviter, group managing director at Seven Capital, said: "There is still a lot of work to do, however securing an operator is a critical detail in the process of moving forward.

"Seven Capital remains committed to the revitalisation of this iconic community venue and we continue to work hard to bring these plans to fruition," he added.

Meanwhile, Wiltshire Police has obtained a three-month partial closure order for the leisure centre after repeated trespass and anti-social behaviour incidents, meaning people breaking into the empty building risk being arrested.

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