A fitness centre that closed despite thousands of people signing up to save it has reopened under new management.

The YMCA fitness centre in Elmfield Avenue, Crouch End, closed in June following months of protests.

YMCA London City and North had said the centre faced higher energy costs, reduced use since the Covid pandemic and new competition nearby.

The building, on the corner of Elmfield Avenue and Tottenham Lane, has now reopened as the Crouch End Fitness Centre.

It has been open to the community for 120 years, and now has a revamped gym, new “protein” bar and creche for parents with young children.

Classes now include disco dance, Zumba, body pump, boxing, yoga, Pilates and Capoeira, a dance-like martial art from Brazil.

Campaigner Claire Wormsley told the Ham and High: “We are really happy that the centre has reopened, refreshed and updated but with the same community values and ethos.

“There is space for everyone whether they’ve never really exercised before or are a keep fit fanatic. Everyone is made welcome.”

For more information on the Crouch End Fitness Centre visit https://www.crouchendfitnesscentre.co.uk//

The YMCA gym had the backing of Hornsey and Wood Green MP Catherine West following a decision last March to close it.

The MP wanted the government to step in and give gas and electricity help so that small enterprises like the Crouch End centre could keep going and “serve the health of our community”.

The campaign led to 77 new members joining — but in the face of 36 others cancelling their membership, the centre’s income remained static from 2022 against rising costs.

More than 100 members gathered outside the centre in June as the ‘Save Our Gym’ campaign got going, with 2,000 signing a petition.

Mum of two Lucie Panton, who had been a member for 15 years, said at the time: “The YMCA holds a unique position in our community, a safe space for young and old to keep fit, active and most importantly social.”