Staff and users are being urged to help make to make a fitness centre “cost neutral” after it was announced it was at risk of closure.
News broke earlier this year that the YMCA fitness centre in Elmfield Avenue, Crouch End, could close as early as April 28.
A letter to members, colleagues and instructors said the centre, which includes a gym floor and fitness class, faces a “significant financial loss” and that options were being explored to save this.
Colleagues had until yesterday (March 23) to voice their opinion in a consultation.
Chris East, the director of community and enterprise at YMCA London City and North, said: “An initial extension has been agreed between YMCA and the lobbying committee with the aim of making the centre cost-neutral by June.”
He explained that to achieve this, the centre needs the help of colleagues, instructors and members.
Mr East added: “Addressing this immediate financial situation will allow more time to create a joint programme of activity between a Membership Steering Group and the YMCA that aims to secure a healthy future for the centre and the Fun Run that benefits our community.”
In an upadte sent out on Wednesday (March 23), it was revealed that members are "willing to pay more" in an effort to save the centre.
Membership fees will change from £35.99 to £49.99.
The YMCA has said the "future is in your hands" and that making this change should help keep the centre open.
The director previously said that rising energy costs, lasting impacts from the pandemic and the opening of a competitor have all been contributing factors to the financial loss.
Mr East said: “The closure of the fitness centre in its current form, which includes a gym floor and fitness classes, is one option, but we remain open to suggestions from our members, accommodation residents and local residents alike as to what best suits their needs within the means available to us."
With an extension agreed, there is still hope for the future of the centre.
More than 2,000 people have signed a petition and more than 100 from the YMCA Member Steering Group have been backing a “Save Our Gym” campaign.
Labour MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, Catherine West, has also shared her support and said: "I am desperate about the gym closure here at the YMCA.
“It's a fantastically popular community facility which runs the annual fun run every year and I just want it to stay open to keep going.
“I would like the government to step in and give gas and electricity help so that small enterprises like this can keep going and keep serving the health of our community."
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