Great news for those looking to adopt a healthier lifestyle and get fitter in 2016 – we can confirm that the former Health Centre, next to the library, is going to re-open as a fitness centre in the coming months.
Steve Gregory will be taking his FitLife Project into the newly refurbished building and extending his particularly effective style of training into a re-styled and re-furbished fitness centre, right in the heart of Haddenham.
Many local residents already enjoy Steve's particular approach, participating in his 'Boot Camp' sessions at the Recreation Ground on Woodways. In future the same folk and many others will have the luxury of pursuing their fitness goals in a dedicated gym.
The former health centre has been un-used for several years, and over that time the building has deteriorated through neglect. Its owners, NHS Property Services, were even contemplating demolition. They will therefore be making a significant contribution to its redevelopment, and this process will begin in early January.
The situation has meant some protracted negotiations, but the outcome is particularly good news for those who currently have to travel to Thame or Aylesbury to find suitable fitness facilities. Now they will have a state-of-the-art gym on their doorstep – close enough to walk or cycle to for their regular workouts.
Says Steve: "The legalities have been a little challenging, as you can probably imagine – but I have had some valuable help and advice from many quarters. The Parish Council has also been very supportive, and for that I am particularly grateful, as I see this development as a community asset."
And the delay has proven to be something of a benefit to Steve. "It's meant that we have had much longer to plan and re-design our optimum configuration, so that the space can offer truly unique facilities, equipment and approaches that simply do not exist elsewhere. The quirky building has offered us creative opportunities that I know will delight and motivate members and staff alike.
When it comes to health and fitness, Steve is particularly well qualified, having been a very successful professional footballer at a senior level for some years. He's also a local lad, who knows Haddenham and its friendly culture well.
Says Steve: "Our newly refurbished building will provide an extremely attractive and modern fitness facility, but the most important element will be the individualised and friendly relationship that we will enjoy with all our club members. Expertise has to sit alongside an individualised, engaging and welcoming approach, and we are determined to make that a reality for our members."
"Part of this ethos means that we will limit our membership to just 300, and our fitness classes will be capped at about 15 people, so everyone will experience and enjoy an individualised approach."
"Another key ingredient will be our staff – fitness expertise and very personable: a great combination."
For those keen to see how Steve's plans are coming together, and to get a sense of what drives him, a Youtube video is available to view here. And the FitLife Project website can be visited here.
For further updates on progress, and details on how you can apply for membership, keep an eye on this website!
