Bannatyne opening in Skelmersdale

Health club operator, Bannatyne Fitness, has purchased a three-acre site in Skelmersdale for the creation of the first of their new "concept" clubs.

The "small town concept" has been developed specifically for towns with smaller populations, with the £3m club in Skelmersdale containing the full range of health and fitness facilities usually associated with larger centres but designed and built for a membership of 2,500.

Facilities at the club will include a 20m swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam area, fully equipped gym and two aerobics studios. A range of classes will also be provided, such as Pilates, boxercise and circuit training.

The sale of the site was by the regeneration agency, English Partnerships, and the agency’s Geoff Currie said: "We are pleased to confirm the sale of this site to Bannatyne. They are a leading name in the health and fitness industry and this club will be a great asset to the town."

Duncan Bannatyne, chair of Bannatyne Fitness, said: "This new club is part of our 2003 expansion programme, which will put us well on the way to reaching our 2004 target of 40 health clubs."

He continued: "Skelmersdale is an ideal location to introduce our "small town concept" and I am sure it will be popular with local residents." Details: www.bannatyne.com