Places for People doubles low-cost offering with Simply Gym acquisitions

Places for People Leisure has expanded its low-cost offering with the purchase of three Simply Gym sites.

The handover of the clubs, in Chesterfield, Hinckley and Telford, is expected to be completed next week for an undisclosed sum.

The sites will be run under the Places Gym brand, which was launched in May 2015 to expand the operator’s reach, and range in size from 16,500sq ft (1,530sq m) to 24,000sq ft (2,230sq m), with a combined membership of 9,000.

It takes the operator’s portfolio of Places Gyms to six, with sites also in Preston, Sheffield and Corby. The social enterprise said it is in the market for more sites.

“As part of the acquisition, significant investments are planned within the three clubs for next year which will ensure we create vibrant, attractive and imaginative places that can’t help but encourage people to be more active,” said Sandra Dodd, chief executive for Places for People Leisure.

Staff will be transferred under TUPE and existing memberships will continue as normal.

Andy Hastings, Simply Gym director, added: “We're very pleased to have concluded this sale but will be sorry to lose three gyms which have run very successfully for us.”

The sale leaves Simply Gym with eight clubs.

Places for People manages more than 100 leisure facilities for local authorities across the country.