Catherine West MP was among those who turned out to support an at-risk fitness centre yesterday (March 4).
More than 100 members gathered outside YMCA Crouch End Fitness Centre to back the ‘Save Our Gym’ campaign.
The fitness centre in Elmfield Avenue could shut on April 28 this year, depending on the outcome of a consultation.
A petition set up to support the gym has already garnered more than 500 signatures.
Chris East, director of community and enterprise at YMCA, claimed that “energy cost increases and the opening of a competitor in the immediate vicinity” have forced the consultation.
He added that “no other part” of the YMCA operation at Crouch End is being reviewed.
Catherine West, Labour MP for Hornsey and Wood Green: "I am desperate about the gym closure here at the YMCA.
“It's a fantastically popular community facility which runs the annual fun run every year and I just want it to stay open to keep going.
“I would like the government to step in and give gas and electricity help so that small enterprises like this can keep going and keep serving the health of our community."
Local members have expressed concern about the proposed closure, including mum of two, Lucie Panton.
Lucie, a member of 15 years, said: “The YMCA holds a unique position in our community, it’s a safe space for young and old alike to keep fit, active and most importantly social.
“My 13-year-old autistic son has been part of the YMCA fitness community since he was a baby - from the creche to after school clubs and weekend football.
"Over the past couple of years, he’s been accompanying me to weekend classes where he is welcomed and supported. He has a space where he belongs.”
When approached for comment about the closure, a YMCA spokesperson, said: “As a valued charity at the heart of the local community, we want to be able to provide whatever facility best serves the wellbeing of local residents and the young people in our care, however, the energy cost increases and the opening of a competitor in the immediate vicinity have meant we must review all possible alternatives for the fitness centre.
“The closure of the fitness centre in its current form, which includes a gym floor and fitness classes, is one option but we remain open to suggestions from our members, accommodation residents and local residents alike as to what best suits their needs within the means available to us.
“A decision about the fitness centre has not yet been made.”
Consultation sessions will be held on March 9 between 8am to 11am and March 15 between 3pm and 7pm to discuss the fitness centre’s future.
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