The YMCA located at the site of the charity’s inaugural purpose-built center is scheduled to permanently shut its doors this Friday.
Situated on Great Russell Street and known for hosting the largest gym in central London, the facility was sold to the real estate firm Criterion Capital last year.
This closure comes after an unsuccessful High Court injunction attempt made by club member Patrick Joy.
Ryan Palmer, the CEO of YMCA, expressed his sorrow, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell for the last time.”
He added, “We are profoundly saddened by the closure of our Great Russell Street location and understand the repercussions this poses for the local community. The site has been a catalyst for positive transformation for countless individuals over the years.”
The club, which boasted 3,600 members and 10,000 regular users, cited demographic shifts, the building’s age, and rising maintenance costs as reasons for the sale.
In December, Mr. Palmer mentioned that the sale would enable the organization to “redirect resources into more sustainable, impactful, and forward-looking initiatives.”
The High Court rejected the injunction to keep the facility open, as Mr. Justice Trower determined that there was insufficient evidence to support Mr. Joy’s claim related to the potential effects on his “health and welfare.”
Originally established in 1911, the building served as a shelter during World War II before being demolished and rebuilt in the 1970s.
The Central YMCA will continue to provide services at its locations in Moorgate and King’s Cross.
