Fitness First to permanently close its gym in Poole

Gymgoers of Fitness First in Fleetsbridge, Poole, say they are “outraged” after receiving an email stating the gym would close on August 31 – with no specific reasons cited.

The communication sent to members stated the gym, which has been in operation for more than 15 years, would permanently cease operations due to “circumstances beyond [its] control”.

It read: “After careful consideration and evaluation of the current circumstances, we regret to inform you that Fitness First Poole will be permanently closing its doors on August 31.

“Whilst we had hoped to maintain operations at Fitness First Poole, circumstances beyond our control have forced us to make the difficult decision to close the club.

“The decision has not been made lightly, and we understand the impact it will have on our dedicated members like you. Over the years, Fitness First Poole has been a place of health, wellness and community, and we are truly grateful for the support and loyalty you have shown us throughout our journey.

Fitness First has more than 30 sites in the UK. (Image: Newsquest)

“As we bid farewell to Fitness First Poole, we want to assure you that we are working diligently to assist you during this transition.”

Marion Buchan, 77, has been going to the gym for ten years and said she was “horrified” by the closure and expressed concern for staff.

She told the Echo: “I know some staff who only found out by the same email that members received. There was no warning.

“For one lady who runs yoga classes at the gym this is her main source of income, where will she go now?

“The whole thing is outrageous, it seemed to be a slam dunk decision with no real notice.

“I’m on my own after my husband died so going there is a big part of my life. I go five days a week and there’s a lot of people my age who go too.

“Everyone will have to find somewhere else now. It’s just really sad.”

Fitness First has been approached to comment.