Bedford Borough Council confirms that Oasis Beach Pool will enter a planned suspension of use from Monday, 3 November 2025, following a week of exciting events and activities for families to enjoy during the October half term.
The age and condition of the building and plant, and the high costs of maintenance and energy use, mean that for this usually quiet winter season, it is financially prudent to suspend use while the council carefully considers the next steps for the site.
Bedford Borough Council is actively seeking a long-term partner to acquire and regenerate the well-known Oasis Beach Pool site, a distinctive leisure destination in Bedford with significant potential for redevelopment and reinvestment. The 6.29-acre site on Cardington Road is being offered on a long leasehold basis for leisure use. The council is inviting proposals from ambitious leisure operators or investors committed to maintaining a leisure offering, aligning with broader regeneration plans and anticipated growth in Bedford Borough.
Since its reopening in May 2024, under the management of Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL) after a six-month closure and investment in essential repairs, Oasis Beach Pool has been a hub for local people to stay active and make lasting memories. The facility includes a leisure pool with a wave machine, flumes, and a small pool - all enjoyed by thousands of visitors and used by a number of groups for classes and sessions. Since the reopening, Oasis Beach Pool has recorded over 117,000 visits, demonstrating the demand for a leisure offering in this area. Recent months have seen special sessions like inflatable fun swims, swim-a-song classes, and relaxed family splash times, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said, "Oasis Beach Pool has played an important role in the health and wellbeing of Bedford Borough residents and visitors alike. This planned pause, which is driven by the high running costs of the site, allows us to maintain the facilities during the quieter winter period, while we explore sustainable options for its future."
Throughout this time, Bedford Borough residents can continue to enjoy a wide range of activities at other local GLL leisure centres, including Robinson Pools & Fitness, Kempston Pool & Fitness, John Bunyan Sports & Fitness, Bedford International Athletics Stadium, and Mowsbury Golf & Squash Complex. These centres are accessible by public transport, ensuring convenient travel for residents to keep active and engaged.
Oasis Beach Pool members will be offered flexible options to transfer, change or cancel their memberships, ensuring uninterrupted access to leisure services across Bedford Borough. During this period, GLL will work with groups who use the site to identify alternative opportunities at other centres where possible.
A spokesperson for GLL said, "Since the Bedford Oasis Beach Pool reopened under our operation in May 2024, we have appreciated the return of customers to this popular and iconic facility and thank them for their custom. We are happy to answer any queries about customer memberships and signpost to alternative facilities in Bedford Borough."
Bedford Borough Council remains dedicated to providing a sustainable, affordable, and accessible leisure offer for all residents, supporting healthy, active lifestyles throughout the year. Learn more about sports and physical activity in Bedford Borough at www.bedford.gov.uk/sport