| LC | |
|---|---|
| Former names | Swansea Leisure Centre |
| General information | |
| Town or city | Swansea, Wales |
| Coordinates | 51:37:01N, 3:56:26W |
| Current tenants | Bay Leisure Ltd |
| Renovated | 1 March 2008 |
| Design and construction | |
| Owner | City and County of Swansea council |
The LC is a leisure centre located in the city centre of Swansea, Wales, UK. Originally Swansea Leisure Centre, the rebranded facility re-opened to the public on 1 March 2008 after a £32 million makeover. The LC's exterior has been revitalised by replacing the old concrete panels with clear glass, translucent glazing and timber panelling.[1]
Contents |
Swansea Leisure Centre was once one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wales. Its location, size and heritage all define its status as one of the most immediately identifiable buildings in Swansea. Opened by the Queen during her silver jubilee celebrations in 1977, the original Swansea Leisure Centre featured modern and groundbreaking facilities, such as the first wave machine to be installed in a leisure centre in Wales. It became one of Wales' top leisure facilities and a substantial tourist attraction. At its peak it attracted more than 800,000 users annually. Swansea Leisure Centre closed in 2003 which resulted in the loss of a major wet weather visitor attraction and a major facility in which families and people of all ages could enjoy a range of recreational activities. Following a review of the options, the Council decided that the refurbishment of the Leisure Centre was the most effective option and works soon progressed in developing the former site into a 21st Century leisure complex.[2]
The LC waterpark is sure to be a firm favourite with visitors of all ages featuring a network of pools and slides. Here are just some of the special features…
Volcano Bay: Slip past the serpents that shoot water into the wave pool and walk through the wall of water to find a slide in a volcano! But beware...the volcano is active...smoke and lasers will fill the waterpark when the volcano erupts! The Masterblaster: The ultimate white-knuckle rollercoaster waterslide that propels riders at high speed up steep inclines and down great dips on a rubber ring. The Lazy River: A winding river that carries swimmers along to the wave pool. Interactive pool: Perfect for younger children fully equipped with mini slide, tipping buckets and fountains. Plus… the aqua slide, the aqua tube, the wave pool, the whirlpool and the LC lagoon!
The first of its kind in the whole world, the indoor Boardrider is a unique ride, unlike anything experienced before!! Situated at the heart of the LC’s waterpark, riders can choose to boogie board or try their hand at real surfing on a never ending wave!
Instructors will help you develop technique and balance whilst experiencing the thrill of the wave – the ride is never the same twice!
The 30 ft climbing wall has 8 lines and over 20 different routes for every level of expertise. PLUS the new automatic belay system means you can climb without any help. Whether you’re new to climbing or a pro you can get to the top.
The LC indoor play area has unique sensory equipment to trigger special effects, children can explore the creatures of the deep without even getting wet! This 4 tier play tower will take youngsters through an aquatic maze of slides, bridges and ball pits! Play is perfect for all age’s especially younger children who aren’t quite tall enough for the water slides and climbing wall! Plus, parents can relax in the play seating area just feet away from The LC Coffee Shop serving hot & cold drinks and snacks – Perfect!
The LC house’s a double multi-purpose sports and exhibition hall to accommodate loads of activities, events and sports and has been named an Official Training Facility for the 2012 London Olympics. Health & fitness reaches a whole new level at the Peak – one of the largest exercise arenas and best gyms in Wales.
The Peak boasts over 180 Technogym stations, equipment with the most up-to-date state of the art technology and breathtaking views over the city of Swansea.
The iZone is a fun, interactive workout area aimed at 11 to 15 year olds. It is the first of its kind in Wales and is based adjacent to the LC’s state-of-the-art gym. The iZone features the latest developments in interactive fitness technology, including Nintendo Wii’s, Dance Mats, Expresso Bikes, Rowers and a Batak Wall, and is also available for existing gym members to use at no additional cost. Many of the features also have the option to compete with other users, recording top scores on a members-only leaderboard.
Spa@LC - The best kept secret in Swansea! Situated in the Peak, Spa@LC offers a wide range of treatments and a place to unwind after a stressful day or perhaps before a stress free night! The wet spa area consists of Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, aromatherapy room, monsoon showers and heated loungers and customers are welcome to use all these features throughout their visit.[3]
The centre was officially reopened by Queen Elizabeth II on 7 March 2008. This was the second time The Queen had officially opened the building, the first time being more than 30 years ago when it was known as Swansea Leisure Centre.