Two major leisure centres in East London could soon stay open until 2am under new council proposals aimed at boosting income and serving residents with unconventional work schedules.
Late-Night Plans for a Diverse Population
Tower Hamlets Council is considering extending operating hours at both Mile End Park Leisure Centre and Whitechapel Sports Centre. The Aspire Party-led authority's draft budget for the 2026/27 financial year includes the plan, which would see the centres open until 2am every day except Sundays.
Council documents state the move is designed to "meet the needs of a growing, diverse population with non-traditional working hours." They specifically cite rising demand from shift workers and younger adults.
Financial Forecasts and Operational Changes
The proposals suggest the extended hours would cost an extra £250,000 but are projected to bring in £300,000 in new income in the coming financial year, starting in April 2026. Forecasts indicate this income could rise to £100,000 in 2027/28 and £120,000 the following year.
To achieve this, the council estimates it would need to increase leisure centre membership by 600 people, equating to £250,000, and raise an additional £25,000 through badminton and sports hall bookings.
The late-night access would allow for "badminton and other late night bookings in the hall and access to the fitness studio." A separate proposal would keep the John Orwell Sports Centre in Wapping open until 7pm on Saturdays.
Current Hours and Next Steps
Currently, Whitechapel Sports Centre opens from 7am to 10pm on weekdays and 8am to 4pm on weekends and bank holidays. Mile End Park Leisure Centre operates from 6am to 10pm on weekdays, 8am to 6pm on weekends, and 9am to 9pm on bank holidays.
The council's leading cabinet committee endorsed the draft budget proposals at a meeting on Wednesday, 7th January 2026. The final budget is now set for a vote by all councillors on Wednesday, 25th February 2026.
