Lib Dems Blast Council Over 'Sub-standard' Everyone Active Acton
Issues with pool temperature and women's toilets being addressed
The main pool at the Everyone Active Acton Centre. Picture: Ealing Council
December 10, 2025
The Liberal Democrat opposition in Ealing has accused the council of allowing Acton’s leisure centre to fall into disrepair despite it being just over a decade old.
The Acton Centre, managed by Everyone Active in partnership with Ealing Council, was officially opened in 2014 as part of a £13 million redevelopment of Acton Town Hall. The facility replaced the old Acton Swimming Baths, which had served the community for decades, and introduced a modern 25-metre pool, a teaching pool, gym, fitness studios, and a library. It was designed to provide a central hub for health, leisure, and community activity in West London.
Ealing Liberal Democrats have criticised the state of the pool facilities, describing them as “sub-standard and not acceptable.”
Councillor Athena Zissimos highlighted two long-running issues. Firstly, the women’s toilet in the changing area, has been closed for over a year due to a persistent blockage. Secondly problems with the pool heating system, linked to newly installed air source heat pumps. These pumps, introduced as part of decarbonisation efforts, have been noisy for nearby residents and have struggled to maintain consistent water and shower temperatures, particularly for early swimmers. Signs have been placed by the entrance to the pool area notifying swimmers of temperatures.
Cllr Zissimos argued that these problems reflect weak contract management by Ealing Labour and a lack of foresight in planning, leaving residents with chilly swims and inadequate facilities.
Local swimmers have voiced frustration at the lack of communication and slow resolution of issues. Some women report having to walk dripping wet through the changing area to reach mixed-gender toilets near the pool entrance. Others note that the heating problems have persisted since October, making swimming less enjoyable during colder months.
Ealing Council acknowledges the problems but stresses that repairs are scheduled. A spokesperson explained that the toilet closure stems from a complex blockage requiring structural modifications to the changing room. Works are due to begin on 22 December, with the aim of reinstating facilities quickly. Additionally, the heat pump noise issue has been addressed through planning approval for an acoustic barrier, expected to be completed imminently. Once installed, it is anticipated that the pumps will return to full use, restoring normal water and shower temperatures.
The council also emphasised that Acton is one of three borough pools, alongside Dormers Wells and Northolt, and that leisure centres are experiencing record usage, with over 2 million visits annually.
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