Advocates striving to preserve the world’s first YMCA, which also contains central London’s largest gym, have faced a setback in their legal efforts as their High Court appeal was denied.
Patrick Joy, a retired postman and club member, filed for an injunction as an individual after it was revealed that the club, situated near Tottenham Court Road in central London, was set to close in February following its sale to a property development firm.
During the court proceedings, Mr. Justice Trower ruled against granting the injunction, citing a lack of sufficient evidence to support Mr. Joy’s claims.
Both YMCA and Criterion Capital have been contacted for a response.
Mr. Joy argued the closure could adversely affect his “health and welfare.”
In a statement after the ruling, the campaign group Save Central YMCA noted that the judge could not issue an interim injunction due to insufficient evidence backing Mr. Joy’s proposed legal action, as well as concerns over his inability to later compensate the Central YMCA charity if it was determined that the injunction was unwarranted.
Campaign spokesperson David Bieda expressed pride in Mr. Joy’s efforts, stating, “Our campaign will persist with the same commitment, vigor, and thoroughness that we have demonstrated thus far. We will carefully monitor all upcoming planning procedures related to the Great Russell Street site.”
Ahead of the hearing, Mr. Joy shared with BBC Radio London his hopes that the injunction might compel the YMCA and its new owners to engage in discussions with campaigners about a community-oriented solution and to provide “evidence and answers.”
He explained that proceeding to the High Court was his only recourse, as “all attempts at negotiation have been met with resistance.”
When asked about the significance of the club, the 74-year-old emphasized the health advantages it offers the community, noting that he had initially been referred there by his doctor after developing diabetes. Following a diagnosis of arthritis, he utilized the center for rehabilitation purposes.
“The closure of this facility will merely shift the burden back onto the NHS. Those in need will face long waiting times again, instead of benefiting from the offerings at the YMCA,” he remarked.
He cautioned that if redevelopment plans proceed, both members and the local community would lose a valuable resource.
“Other gyms might charge £70 a month; if I pay that, I’m not working out my body, I’m merely exercising my finances,” he added.
According to Save Central YMCA, the facility plays a vital role in providing “a wide range of exercise, wellbeing, social, and educational opportunities for the community, local schools, and health services.”
With 3,600 members and 10,000 regular users, the center also hosts one of the largest programs for older adults in the UK, as highlighted by spokesperson David Bieda.
In December, YMCA’s chief executive Ryan Palmer stated that the sale would enable the organization to “reinvest in more sustainable, impactful, and future-oriented initiatives.”
