Horizon Leisure acquires Sports Direct gym and reopens it as a wellbeing facility

Charitable leisure trust, Horizon Leisure, has acquired a former Sports Direct gym in Guildford and transformed it into a health, fitness and wellbeing facility.

The trust has invested £1m in redeveloping the facility, which it acquired earlier this year for an undisclosed sum.

It is the first time Horizon has acquired a private sector health club and the move is part of its long-term strategy to acquire new sites and expand its portfolio of facilities.

The 9,000sq ft club opened its doors this month following a comprehensive refurbishment, which included fitting the large gym area with equipment supplied by Life Fitness.

Facilities include a studio space for group exercise classes and an indoor cycling studio. There's also a new sauna and steam space and a refurbished pool with changing facilities.

Horizon now manages three Leisure Centres in Havant and Waterlooville.

Mike Lyons, CEO, Horizon Leisure, said: “We hope this will be the first of many new locations for Horizon. We’ve invested heavily in the venue and have brought together a great new team of staff.

“We have a history of delivering a family-friendly offer with a premium feel at an affordable price and our customers can be guaranteed a warm and inviting welcome, along with tailored solutions for their health needs.

"We're passionate about bringing this facility back to life and are creating a high-quality community hub where everyone is welcome.

"Horizon is committed to inspiring healthier and happier communities and providing community benefit for all regardless of background," he said.