The move forms part of the charitable group’s long-term strategy to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the South of England through acquisitions and expansion. The charity launched Horizon Guildford in June after a £1m redevelopment. 

The building work saw a complete overhaul of the 9,000sq ft facility, including a large gym area equipped by Life Fitness, a studio for group exercise classes including Les Mills, plus an indoor cycling studio. There is also a new sauna and steam space and a refurbished pool with changing facilities. Horizon Guildford’s Learn to Swim programme for children and adults will get underway in September 2023.

The charitable trust currently manages Havant and Waterlooville Leisure Centres in Hampshire.

“We are thrilled to open our new centre in Guildford, and hope this will be the first of many new locations for Horizon. We’ve invested heavily in the venue and have brought together a great new team of staff. Horizon Leisure has a history of delivering a family-friendly offer with a premium feel at an affordable price and our customers can be guaranteed a warm and inviting welcome, along with tailored solutions for their health needs,” said Mike Lyons, CEO, Horizon Leisure.