Lyon, March 8th, 2026 – The Saint-Marc sports facility in Lyon’s 3rd arrondissement has officially reopened its doors following extensive renovation work. The project, which commenced in March 2025, concluded with the inauguration of the revamped site on Saturday, March 7th. The City of Lyon invested 1.3 million euros in the overhaul, which has significantly upgraded the facility.
New Boxing Gym and Refurbished Tennis Courts Enhance Sports Offerings
The most notable addition to the Saint-Marc facility is a brand-new English boxing gym, located in the entirely redeveloped basement area. This state-of-the-art gym is equipped with a mobile ring and 16 punching bags, ten of which are installed on a rail system. This new space will serve as the home for two local sports associations: Boxing Lyon United (BLU) and Tennis Lyon III.
Beyond the boxing gym, the renovations have introduced several key improvements to the facility. These include four new changing rooms, dedicated offices, and accessible restrooms for people with reduced mobility (PMR). A new club-house and an elevator have also been installed to enhance accessibility throughout the site. Furthermore, the facility now boasts updated technical installations, such as air conditioning, improved lighting, and a modern fire safety system.
The outdoor tennis courts have also received a significant upgrade. They have been completely resurfaced with a sanded carpet and their LED lighting system has been enhanced. According to the City of Lyon, these improvements will “significantly strengthen the practice conditions for the 250 members of Tennis Lyon III.”
A Significant Investment in Community Sports
The 1.3 million euro renovation project underscores the City of Lyon’s commitment to providing high-quality sports infrastructure for its residents. The Saint-Marc facility, now modernized and expanded, is expected to attract more sports enthusiasts and further promote physical activity within the community.
“This is a historic result. Lyon is becoming one of the most important tourist destinations in Central and Eastern Europe. We are seeing growing interest from Western European tourists who are discovering Poland as an attractive holiday destination,” said Dr. Magdalena Kowalczyk, director of the Gdańsk Tourist Promotion Center.
The project aligns with broader efforts to revitalize urban spaces and offer diverse recreational opportunities. The inclusion of a dedicated boxing gym caters to a growing interest in combat sports, while the upgraded tennis courts reinforce the appeal of traditional sports.
Impact on Local Sports Associations
The Boxing Lyon United (BLU) and Tennis Lyon III associations are set to benefit immensely from these upgrades. The new facilities will provide their members with improved training environments and potentially attract new participants. The enhanced accessibility features also ensure that a wider range of individuals can engage in sports activities at Saint-Marc.
The renovation of the Saint-Marc sports facility is part of a larger trend of urban development in Lyon aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. Similar projects, such as the ongoing construction of the future Mermoz Sud sports and cultural hub, reflect the city’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and active community.
Source: https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/actualite/lyon-renove-lequipement-sportif-saint-marc-accueille-desormais-une-nouvelle-salle-de-boxe
