Client requirements

• Improve revenue and usage levels
• Increase the size of the gym which was at capacity
• Expand activity mix to meet local demand
• Upgrade quality of facility in line with current market expectations
• Maximise available space

 

Design and planning

A feasibility study undertaken by an independent consultancy identified demand for fitness, “the proposal to extend the gym over the sports hall may provide more accommodation than is actually required (for fitness) – however this should be explored at the design development stage”.

 

“CREATEABILITY worked with us to explore the possibilities this extra space offered. Getting advice from a practical building and cost perspective was extremely useful and the visuals provided helped us see how it would look. Now the work is finished it has become obvious just how accurate these were”, says Bevis Moynan, Centre Manager. “We wanted to attract more youngsters, from toddlers to teens, so decided to create a soft play area, play structure and a multi purpose studio with dance mats and a Sports Wall”.

 

Construction phase

The work was phased so the majority of areas remained open during the 32 week building works phase - apart from a two-week closure of the sports hall.

 

A cohesive approach to the fitness areas, as recommended by the feasibility study, was adopted. On the ground floor a larger gym was created, dedicated changing areas built and heat treatment and therapy areas added.
 
Due to the lack of available information on the original building, risks to the project were identified and appropriate budgets set aside to cover these elements. They included technical problems with piled foundations and drainage, all of which were overcome within the original budgets allocated.

 

Results

“The whole project has been a huge success and our customers love it.  Our refurbished fitness area is really popular, the new changing rooms and heat treatment areas give a quality feel. But the response to the new children’s activities has really surprised us. It was, in part, a result of CREATEABILITY’s experience and understanding of the market that we incorporated these”.