From its historic status as a railway connector serving the community of Mablethorpe between 1877 and 1970. To the thriving hustle and bustle of the Station leisure and learning centre. The coastal town of Mablethorpe has undoubtedly been on a journey of discovery.
Where once stood the Station Corner, where family and friends would meet, now stands a £13.5 community centre, a place of leisure and learning with vastly different facilities, but equally the heart of a community.
The newly opened Station Leisure & Learning Centre has transformed the coastal resort leisure offer, bringing the town’s first public swimming pool, a facility offering swimming lessons, family swimming, school swimming, and public swimming sessions.
When we asked the community what they wanted… this was it: residents were firm in their desire for a swimming pool.
However, this was not a case of building it, and they will come. Magna Vitae worked tirelessly to understand its users and non-users, the town’s challenges and how we could overcome them by working in unison.
Before the first spade was in the ground for the newly opened Station Leisure and Learning Centre in Mablethorpe, operators Magna Vitae went on a journey of understanding, and at the centre of this journey was the project steering group—a forum of members and non-members who were pivotal in framing the venue’s offer.
The Steering Group included internal and external partners such as schools, disability groups, health and wellbeing providers, local authorities, and Primary Care Trusts representatives.
“With the steering group’s support, we have achieved a place crafted from the foundations of the town’s former station, a true community connector in every sense; I am delighted to have been on this journey and look forward to continuing our relationships with stakeholders to help shape the services we offer to the community in Mablethorpe and the surrounding areas.”
-Paul Marper- Operations Manager, Station Leisure & Learning Centre
The expectation of an improved health and wellbeing offer took Magna Vitae on a journey of discovery, during which we have been mindful of adding value and through consultation with partners, gauging a deep understanding of community perception and barriers to participation.
The steering group informed the timetable, a carefully crafted programme with age labels removed for designated swim times, an inclusive approach, and a focus on creating a relaxed environment where varied needs and behaviours can be supported. What was known as an over-50s swim is now simply a slower, steadier swim. There is no pressure, just an opportunity to exercise and socialise as one.
The team also introduced supported swims for those on a health referral programme, providing advice and guidance around chronic pain management, and inclusive swims for those with sensory or behavioural needs.
Whilst the introduction of EGym, used by 45% of the membership base, helps residents track their overall health and fitness. Over 1500 residents are actively engaged in monthly group exercise sessions, with Aquacise in the new pool proving to be the most popular.
The steering group’s input extended to how we named our membership packages to provide greater clarity to our members; Gold, Silver, and Bronze were replaced with Single or Multi Venue, ensuring members know exactly what’s included as part of their fee. Whilst the term ‘Cash’ from Cash Memberships was replaced with the word ‘Upfront’ to make sure everyone understands how people can pay.
Operators Magna Vitae were also keen to ensure the needs of younger people were also catered for with Magna Tag, an interactive challenge arena providing all-year-round entertainment and escapism. During school holidays there is also the opportunity for young people to join a half-term breakfast club, giving access to reduced-cost swimming, Magna Tag, and a wholesome breakfast for just £1.50.
“We kept asking ourselves whether everything we did had community at the heart. The steering group was pivotal in framing this. They gave us the uplift and motivation, reminded us of our achievements, and explained why we do what we do. We can’t thank them enough.”
Naomi Wilkinson-Baker- Director of Operations, Magna Vitae
As the venue opens its doors in 2025, it’s full steam ahead for the Station Leisure & Learning Centre, and it’s pleasing to see the steering group and community in the driving seat for the programming and success of this seaside story.
Explore our Leisure Venues
Join us at our four locations in Skegness, Horncastle, Mablethorpe, and Louth.
Enjoy fitness suites, swimming pools, café facilities, a variety of exercise classes, and vibrant community groups.
We provide a wide variety of attractions across the East Coast of Lincolnshire.
From Altitude44 to MagnaTag and The Embassy Theatre, there’s something for everyone.
Take a look at some of our attractions below:
Our charitable status.
We are proud of who we are and what we do.
As a Charitable Trust, we aim to combat social exclusion and improve health issues, along with so much more!
Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our community by offering an extensive range of leisure and cultural activities designed to inspire, entertain, and nurture well-being.
