A community sports facility located in central London will continue its operations following the sale of its lease, alleviating concerns about its possible closure that had persisted for a year.
The previous owner of Jubilee Hall Gym in Covent Garden had indicated plans to sell due to an inability to cover operating expenses.
The lease has now been acquired by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), the largest leisure trust in the UK, which will take possession of the facility in November.
The Covent Garden Community Association (CGCA), comprising local residents and business representatives, expressed disappointment over its unsuccessful bid to purchase the lease, but recognized the transaction as beneficial for the community.
Local residents and gym users had previously emphasized the hall’s crucial role as a safe space for women, children, and the LGBTQ community, expressing concerns that a commercial entity might take over.
During a meeting with Westminster City Council, GLL announced plans to invest £250,000 into upgrading the venue.
The funds will be used to purchase new equipment, including a new boiler, refurbish the studio and changing areas, and expand the range of activities offered.
Members will also gain access to GLL facilities throughout London and the wider UK.
Noreen Rahman, who was involved in the CGCA’s bid, stated, “While I’m disappointed by the outcome, it ultimately benefits the community.”
“Last year, there was a genuine threat of Jubilee Hall Gym shutting down, but now we have the assurance that it will remain operational.”
Jon Giles, CEO of Jubilee Hall Trust, noted that the new arrangement ensures the gym’s future stability for many years ahead.
Peter Bundey, CEO of GLL, commented, “Our goal is to restore Jubilee Hall to a sustainable financial footing, and as a social enterprise, any future profits will be reinvested into the communities we support in inner London.”
GLL oversees 240 leisure centres, libraries, and community services in collaboration with local councils and organizations in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
