Charitable trust open health, fitness and wellbeing facility in Guildford

HORIZON Leisure, which currently manages Havant and Waterlooville Leisure Centres in Hampshire, has opened its new wellbeing facility, following its first acquisition of a private gym; the former Sports Direct site in Guildford.

The move forms part of the charitable group’s long-term strategy to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the South of England through acquisitions and expansion.

The charity opened Horizon Guildford following a £1million redevelopment.

Mike Lyons, CEO of Horizon Leisure, said: “We are thrilled to open our new centre in Guildford, and hope this will be the first of many new locations for Horizon.

“The Guildford facility looks fantastic, with great exercise spaces and equipment. We’ve invested heavily in the venue and have brought together a great new team of staff.

“Horizon Leisure has 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.”

The launch was attended by the Mayor of Guildford, Councillor Masuk Miah, as well as other VIP guests and ‘early bird’ new customers, who were treated to a full tour of the site and refreshments, as well as having the opportunity to be the first people to try out the gym and its exercise classes.

The building work saw a complete overhaul of the 9,000 sq/ft facility, including a large gym area with highspecification equipment provided by Life Fitness, a studio for group exercise classes including Les Mills, plus an indoor cycling studio.

There is also a new sauna and steam space and a refurbished pool with changing facilities.

Horizon Guildford’s Learn to Swim programme for children and adults will get underway in September.

As a charitable organisation, any surplus made by Horizon will be reinvested, providing community benefit for local people, including creating inclusive, affordable health and wellbeing initiatives for the people in the South of England, such as health programmes tailored for people with specific health needs, as well as access to its GP/health referral scheme.

Councillor Masuk Miah, Mayor of Guildford, was shown around the new facility and cut the ribbon to officially launch Horizon Guildford.

He added: “As a keen gym goer myself, I’m excited to be attending the opening of this new wellbeing hub and gym in Merrow.

“It’s not just about physical fitness, but also about promoting overall wellbeing for our community. I am confident that this facility will be a valuable resource to help our residents lead healthier and happier lives.

“I encourage all residents to prioritise their health and wellbeing and I’m proud to support Horizon Leisure in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in Guildford.”