June 2025 • Vision RCL

Month: June 2025

Vision Redbridge organised a special celebration on behalf of Redbridge Council today, Friday 27 June, to mark Armed Forces Day, paying tribute to veterans and those currently serving in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces.

The event took place outside Redbridge Town Hall, where members of the public joined council representatives, cadets, serving soldiers, and veterans in honouring the vital contributions made by the Armed Forces community.

The speakers at today’s ceremony included The Leader of Redbridge Council, Kam Rai, Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Beverley Brewer and David Utting, Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Redbridge.

The celebration also featured a stirring performance of the National Anthem by students from Redbridge Creates, adding a heartfelt touch to the commemorations.

Armed Forces Day is a national occasion to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces, past and present, and Redbridge was proud to stand united in recognition of their dedication and sacrifice.

As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, Vision Redbridge is reminding residents to Be Park Smart when enjoying the many beautiful green spaces across the borough. Vision Parks are more than just scenic retreats – they’re vibrant community spaces that support health and wellbeing for all ages.

Whether you’re swinging through the playground, enjoying a spending times with friends and family, or taking a peaceful stroll, Vision Parks are here to offer a safe and welcoming environment. To help preserve these cherished spaces and ensure everyone’s safety, we are sharing a few important reminders for all park visitors this summer.

Stay safe around water

While lakes and open water may look tempting during hot spells, they can pose hidden dangers such as cold shock, sudden drops in depth, and underwater obstacles. Swimming in Vision Parks’ lakes is strictly prohibited.

For those looking to cool off with a swim, Loxford Leisure Centre or Mayfield Leisure Centre. Both of these centres have swimming pools.

Prevent Wildfires: No BBQs, No open flames

Vision Parks are BBQ-free zones – and for good reason. Even a small flame can lead to a large and dangerous wildfire, especially during dry conditions. A single lit cigarette can quickly spark a blaze, endangering wildlife, people, and property.

Instead, pack a picnic and enjoy your day safely. Keeping our parks clean and fire-free protects these spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Let’s protect our parks, wildlife, homes, and the people who enjoy them. Don’t add pressure to the London Fire Brigade – help keep Vision Parks safe for everyone.

Tips for beating the heat

Spending time outdoors is great for the body and mind, but warm weather requires a bit of extra care. Here’s how to stay safe:

  • Stay hydrated: Carry water with you and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  • Look out for others: Be mindful of those who are more vulnerable in the heat, including older adults, young children, and those with health conditions.
  • Avoid sun exposure from 11am to 3pm, when UV rays are strongest.
  • Apply high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing, like wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
  • Limit strenuous activity during peak heat hours.
  • Never leave anyone – including pets – in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Temperatures can soar rapidly and become life-threatening.

Vision RCL encourages everyone to make the most of the borough’s parks – safely and respectfully. By staying informed and mindful, we can all help keep these green spaces clean, welcoming, and safe for all.
Let’s make this summer one to remember – for all the right reasons.

A new skatepark is to be built at Forest Road Recreation Ground in Hainault, to replace and upgrade the park’s popular but ageing facility. 

Situated at the junction of Forest Road and Elmbridge Road, the current skatepark has been a much-loved destination for over 20 years, attracting local young people keen to master everything from handplants to tail grabs on its iconic vertical half-pipe. 

However, after a recent inspection by external experts, the structure has sadly been deemed unsafe and has now been closed on safety grounds. While routine repairs and maintenance were carried out for many years, the time has come to retire the existing facility and look ahead to something bigger and better. 

Reimagining the skatepark – in partnership with the community 

This brand new skatepark will be more than just a replacement to the existing facility. It’s an opportunity to reimagine what a skatepark can be, and Redbridge Council and Vision RCL are committed to co-designing the new facility with local residents and skatepark users. 

We will soon launch a public consultation and invite ideas on key elements of the new skatepark, including its features and the overall design, the layout and accessibility for all skill levels, and its visibility, and ease of supervision. 

Councillor Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council said, “We’ve known for some time that Hainault Skate Park, which has been well-used and well-loved over the years, would soon need replacing. That’s why we took the proactive step in February this year to designate funding in our budget to deliver a new skate park. 

“Following a routine inspection, it’s been confirmed that the current structure had reached the end of its life, and risks becoming unsafe. Thanks to the work we’ve already done, we are in a position to move quickly on a replacement. We’ve already contacted a number of specialist providers, and expect to commission a replacement park shortly. 

“In the meantime, alternative skate facilities are available in Seven Kings and in Romford. We look forward to engaging directly with local skaters and park users on the design of the new site. We want the new skate park to be shaped by the people who use it, and to come back even better than before.” 

A consultation will be developed on the replacement skate park as soon as possible. Redbridge Council and Vision RCL are working quickly to keep the temporary closure to a minimum. 

Update on Monday 9 June:

We are pleased to confirm that the 1856 Café and Public Toilets are now open. Foxburrows Farm is closed on Mondays during term time and will re-open tomorrow as usual.

Update on Saturday 7 June:

Due to a major leak in a water main operated by Thames Water, there is currently no water at Hainault Forest

Thames Water has confirmed the leak is situated at the front of the site, and it must be allowed to dry out for 48 hours before it can be repaired.

As a result of the water main leak, we’ve been forced to close the 1856 Café, Farm, and Public Toilets. These facilities are inoperable without water, and we regret any inconvenience this may cause.

Thames Water has assured us they will return on Monday 9 June to fix the leak. We are hopeful for a swift resolution to this issue.

The park and play area will remain open as usual, and Our Park Ranger Team are also on-site to inform customers.

We understand that this unexpected situation beyond our control may disrupt your plans, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience it may cause.

Update 4pm, Friday 6 June

Following our update on Monday 2 June about Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre we can now confirm that a complete RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) assessment for the building has been completed.

We are pleased to let you know that after having to close on Monday, we’re now able to reopen parts of the leisure centre. Thank you for your patience and we look forward to welcoming customers back to:

  • The Spa  
  • Studio 1  
  • Sam Ryan Studio  
  • Changing rooms (Please note that, due to only one changing room being available, this will be a shared facility for both male and female customers)
  • Reception area  

However following the assessment, RAAC has been found in the pool area roof. We have taken the precaution to keep the pool, gym areas, Studio 2, and the spectator area closed until further notice. This decision has been made in line with our commitment to prioritise the health and safety of our customers and dedicated staff.

To prevent unauthorised access, we have installed shutters at the pool entrance. Additionally, clear signage has been placed throughout the facility to inform and guide visitors accordingly. Our team is conducting regular safety checks and will continue to monitor the situation closely. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.

Group exercise classes:

Classes will resume on Monday 9 June, in Sam Ryan Studio and Studio 1.

Bookings will be available via the Vision app from today (Friday, 6 June)

Rest assured, we are actively exploring options to relocate additional group exercise sessions. We will keep you updated on any new locations and times, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy our services in the future.

Important membership information:

  1. If you’d like to continue using your membership at another Vision facility, please speak to our front-of-house team or email us
  2. To cancel your membership, no action is required. Your membership will be automatically cancelled once the freeze period ends unless we hear from you.
  3. If you have not notified us that you would like to continue your membership, your account will be frozen, and you will receive a refund automatically within 21 days. We are working to process refunds as fast as possible; you do not need to contact us to request your refund.

We are deeply grateful for the continued support of our loyal customers who have chosen to use alternative facilities during this period. Your patience and understanding are truly appreciated.

Thank you for being a part of the Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre community.

Update Monday 2 June

Following a recent structural inspection, engineers have identified Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in parts of the building. While there is no immediate risk, we are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of everyone who uses or works in the facility.  

Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre is currently managed by Vision Redbridge, which works in partnership with the London Borough of Redbridge to deliver a wide range of leisure and cultural services to the communities we serve. 

As a precautionary measure, we will be temporarily closing Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre, effective immediately, while further assessments and essential works are conducted. 

Built in the 1960s, Fullwell Cross has served the Redbridge community for decades, providing a space for people of all ages to swim, train, relax, and connect. We understand the significance of this space for our members, staff, and the wider community and how difficult this news will be for those who rely on it.  

We will continue to keep you informed with updates on the timescales for the necessary works, and we’re working hard behind the scenes to minimise disruption wherever possible.  

If you are a member, here are the steps which we will be taking over the coming days: 

  1. All memberships will be frozen automatically.
  2. If you’d like to continue using your membership at another leisure centre, please let our front-of-house team know or email us
  3. If you’d like to cancel your membership, you do not need to take any further steps. If we do not hear from you, your membership will automatically cancelled after the freeze period has ended. 

We will be in touch with all members individually to provide more details. We kindly request that you refrain from calling or emailing until you have received an email from us. This will enable us to work more efficiently and ensure that everyone is contacted promptly.  

If you’d like to stay with us, then we have several centres still open for you to use:  

We are exploring options to relocate some of our group exercise programme sessions. We will keep customers updated on the new locations and times. Classes will be available to book via the Vision app as usual.  

We are also reviewing availability for moving swimming lessons to Loxford, Mayfield, and Caterham School pools and will be in touch shortly to offer classes to existing Fullwell Cross swimmers.  

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. Fullwell Cross has always been more than just a building; it’s a part of our shared history — and we look forward to welcoming you back once it’s safe to do so. 

After years of shared ambition and creative planning, Vision Libraries and partner company U Can Too are delighted to announce that they have successfully secured funding from Libraries Connected and Arts Council England for an innovative new family project, Think Outside the Box.

This exciting venture, aimed at families with children aged 6 to 12, invites participants to dive into an imaginative, story-filled box. immersing themselves as characters of that story, to solve accompanying challenges and ultimately complete the story. 

The creative team is placing community involvement at the heart of the process. They’ll be reaching out to local young people to help shape the story’s theme – ensuring that the final experience is inspired by the voices and ideas of the very audience it’s designed for. Then, testing will take place in early August, with the launch happening in October this year.

Chair of Vision Trustees, Martin Solder said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be moving forward with Think Outside the Box. This is a unique opportunity to combine storytelling, creativity, and family learning in a hands-on, immersive way

At Vision Redbridge, we are constantly looking for innovative ways to engage our communities, and this project is a perfect example of what’s possible when local passion meets national support. By partnering with U Can Too and securing funding from Libraries Connected and Arts Council England, we’re not only bringing a fresh and imaginative experience to Redbridge, but also empowering families to connect, explore, and learn together.”

Isobel Hunter MBE, Chief Executive of Libraries Connected said:
“Think Outside the Box celebrates what libraries are all about: bringing communities together through stories, imagination and creativity. We’re so pleased to support Vision Redbridge in delivering this unique project and can’t wait for the launch in October.”

We’d like to take this opportunity to extend a huge thank you to Libraries Connected and Arts Council England for supporting this project.

We can’t wait to share the Think Outside the Box experience with you later this year!

For the latest updates, follow @redbridgelibraries on social media or sign up for our libraries newsletter.

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