Choices Health Clubs breathes new life into derelict Lake District pool

An abandoned community swimming pool has become an ‘eyesore no more’, thanks to an ambitious turnaround project led by family-run operator Choices Health Clubs.

Troutbeck Bridge Swimming Pool in the Lake District, which closed in 2012 with the pool beyond repair, has benefited from a £500,000 investment as part of its relaunch as the mid-market Choices Health Club Windermere.

“When I first walked into this site it was in a real mess – having been closed for three years,” said Choices Health Clubs director Duncan Foster.

“There was evidence of vandalism, broken windows and the building was a real eyesore in such a beautiful location. Being able to bring around this change is a fantastic feeling.”

Staying true to its aquatic roots, the 20,000sq ft (1,858sq m) site features a new pool, sauna, steamroom and Jacuzzi as part of the £39.99 per month proposition. The club’s gym is kitted out with the Matrix 7xe Cardio range, with integrated screens and Virtual Active Software, as well as the Aura strength range. It also contains a large free weights zone and a range of functional training equipment, plus two exercise studios.

“Watching the club grow from a building site into a premium full service health club has been an incredible experience and the word proud is an understatement of how I feel when I walk into work,” added Choices Windermere general manager Andy Gray.

“I’m looking forward to watching the club grow and deliver on its huge potential.”

The new site is Choices’ second opening of 2015 – taking its national total of clubs to four. Foster told Health Club Management the firm remains committed to steady growth and is currently looking at a number of opportunities to further this over the next 12 to 18 months.