Charitable trust set to open Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Facility in Guildford’s old Sports Direct gym following £1 million pound refurbishment
Horizon Leisure, which currently manages Havant and Waterlooville Leisure Centres in Hampshire, has made its first acquisition of a private gym; the former Sports Direct site in Guildford.
The move is Horizon Leisure’s first acquisition and forms part of the charitable group’s long-term strategy to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the South of England. The charity is preparing to reopen the doors of its new Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Facility in early summer 2023 following a million-pound refurbishment of the 9,000 sq/ft facility.
Building works, due to start in imminently, will include a complete overhaul of the facility including a refresh of the front exterior of the building. Inside, a large gym area will be created with high specification equipment, as well as an exercise studio, which will incorporate studio cycling, a new sauna and steam room, and an overhaul of the changing facilities. The new-look health and wellbeing hub will also include a Learn to Swim programme for local children and group exercise classes, including Les Mills, to cater for a variety of abilities and interests.
Horizon Leisure is a charitable trust, and any operating surplus will be reinvested back into community benefit for local people. Horizon will also provide a range of community health initiatives, including sessions tailored for people with specific health needs, as well as access to its GP/Health Referral Scheme. Horizon is actively looking to develop connections within the local NHS, Social Prescribers and local sports and community groups in the Guildford area.
Mike Lyons, CEO of Horizon Leisure says: “We are passionate about bringing this facility back to life and are creating a high-quality community hub where everyone is welcome. Horizon is committed to inspiring healthier and happier communities and providing community benefit for all regardless of background. We have a history of delivering a family friendly offer, with a premium feel at an affordable price. We put our customers first in every decision we make and part of this is to remove barriers to participation.
“More than ever, the benefits of being active are huge, and a key commitment of Horizon Leisure and its latest acquisition is to improve the health and wellbeing of the people of Guildford for the long term. Our memberships are inclusive and are suitable for everyone. A healthy lifestyle is the foundation to a happy life and transforming this facility, along with our team providing expert support, we will encourage the community in Guildford to make positive decisions about their health.”
In preparation for opening, Horizon Leisure will be looking for a new team of staff to ensure the delivery of its service. Lyons continues: “Our team will be focused on delivering the very highest standards offering support and guidance. We are looking to recruit enthusiastic people who are passionate about health and wellbeing.”
