The Gym at Redbridge Drama Centre
Following the recent closure of South Woodford Library and Gym, we have been working in the background to ensure we can continue to provide a safe, welcoming space in South Woodford for our customers.
We are now excited to announce that we’ll be opening The Gym & Library @ Redbridge Drama Centre from 12:00pm on Tuesday 12 November.
When you arrive, you’ll notice we have successfully completed phase 1, which includes:
• moving the gym equipment you’ll be familiar with over from South Woodford Library and Gym
• redecorating the gym area and upgrading the lighting, power and wifi
• creating a new changing room space with lockers. The lockers require a padlock, and we’re giving away the first 300 padlocks for free to our members: 1 padlock per member.
• the redecorating of customer toilet facilities
• creating a new ‘quick choice’ library area for you to borrow and return books, space to study or relax and login to our public PCs and Hublets
Next, we’ll move on to phase 2 which will include:
• The creation of a brand-new group exercise studio, with additional capacity for classes
• An improved café offer with some tasty post-work out treats for you
Want to preview the new gym? Our team will be on hand to show you around at the following times:
5 to 8 November from 9am to 3pm
9 to 10 November from 9am to 12pm
Or you can sign up right away at https://visionredbridge.gladstonego.cloud/site-finder
Further information on the closure of South Woodford Library & Gym
Update from Monday 30 September 2024
Following the advice of structural engineers, we regret to announce that South Woodford Library & Gym will remain closed at this time. We are making plans to be closed for an estimated 12 months to allow for essential remedial works to be completed. We will keep customers updated with timescales as we know more.
In response, Vision Redbridge has been working diligently behind the scenes, making proactive plans to adapt Redbridge Drama Centre to accommodate valued users. Up and coming plans include a new fitness studio, the transformation of the entrance area into a vibrant communal space featuring a café, pop-up library and study area while further rooms will be converted into a multi-purpose gym area. We’re also exploring enhancements to the existing programming which includes dance, theatre, performing arts, and acrobatic skills. This work will be carried out as soon as possible in phases.
During this period, the Group Exercise programme will continue at The Studios within Redbridge Drama Centre. Classes remain available for booking via the Vision app. All activities at the Drama Centre will continue as usual and are not affected.
Existing Vision members have the option to freeze or cancel their membership, or use other Vision facilities which are free including in their membership:
Woodford Green Library & Gym (please note this is our smallest gym, due to the extra demand there may be waiting times for equipment)
• Fullwell Cross Leisure Centre
For library services, you can return books via the drop box at Redbridge Drama Centre or at nearby libraries in Wanstead and Woodford Green, where you can return books or collect reservations. Our virtual library remains available to find, reserve and renew your books online. You will need your library card number and a PIN to set up your online account if you don’t already have one. If you need assistance with this, then please contact your nearest open branch. Alternatively, you can download the My Library App to manage your account or call your local branch for assistance with renewing and reserving items.
We understand that this is frustrating time for our customers who enjoyed using the facilities at South Woodford but the safety of our customers and staff is our top priority. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Q: What is happening / When will the building reopen?
Following a structural inspection, our engineers have discovered Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in South Woodford Library & Gym.
There is no immediate danger to the structure of the building, but we are adding props throughout the building as a precaution.
This means the library and gym will be closed until further notice while the props are put in place. We are waiting for further advice from the structural engineers on when the site can reopen.
Further updates and a reopening time will be announced via the Vision app and social media.
Q: Where can I go instead?
All classes have been diverted to Redbridge Drama Centre. This is a short walk away from South Woodford Library and Gym. We are increasing the capacity of these classes to accommodate more people. You can book these directly on the vision app, however web booking is not available at this time.
Q: How can I access Redbridge Drama Centre?
Redbridge Drama Centre is located at: Churchfields, London, E18 2RB. Please enter via the gates and follow the road to the back of the centre where a member of our team will greet you and check you in for your class.
We are working to upgrade the experience we can offer at Redbridge Drama Centre including the addition of a water fountain to the site and additional capacity for classes.
Q: What facilities are available at Redbridge Drama Centre?
We are sorry but there are no shower facilities or onsite parking available at Redbridge Drama Centre. Please continue to park at South Woodford Library and Gym. There is limited availability for on street parking near the venue.
About membership
Q: Will I still have to pay for my membership?
We offer access to all our leisure centres; therefore, membership fees will continue to be taken. However, if you don’t wish to continue using other centres, we are offering to temporarily freeze your membership without charge until the situation is resolved. We can do this over the phone, or you can complete our member services request form in our app.
Q: I have an annual membership; will it be extended?
Any prepaid memberships will be extended for the period which South Woodford Library and Gym remains closed. For example, if the site is closed for 2 weeks, your membership will be extended for 2 weeks.
About the library
Q: Will I receive fines for late return of books?
No. All fines have been suspended until the library reopens. However, historic fines and charges on your account which were incurred prior to 3rd September 2024 will remain on your account.
Q: Can I continue to borrow books?
You can continue to borrow books using your library card from any library in Redbridge or partner library from the Libraries Consortium. However, stock from South Woodford is currently unavailable.
Click here for a full list of libraries in Redbridge.
Click here for a full list of partners in the Libraries Consortium. (Search under, where else can I use my library card)
You can also use our Virtual Library. Download Libby, Borrow Box, Press Reader and Kanopy to get free access to thousands of ebooks, audio books, magazines, films, graphic novels and newspapers. These are all free with your library card.
Q: I reserved a book to be collected at South Woodford Library, where can I find it?
All books will be diverted to the closest library, Woodford Green Library and Gym. You can nominate an alternative library for collection if you prefer. Please indicate this at the time of reserving your books.
Q: How can I renew my books?
You can renew your books online or via the My Library App. You can also renew your books at any other local library by phone or at the branch.
Q: How can I return my books?
You can return your books to any library in The Libraries Consortium. If you can’t make it to any other library right now, don’t worry – you will not be fined for late return of books.
