THE transformation of an empty Leigh post office into a 24-hour top-of-the-range gym is nearing completion and it is set to open in the coming months.
American gym brand Anytime Fitness is behind the overhaul of the former post office, in Rectory Grove, after the post office closed six years ago.
Leigh couple Zoe and Tony Georgiou will be the franchise owners and are looking forward to throwing open the doors in their home town.
After a five-month construction period, exterior walls have been pulled down and a grey sign has been fitted to the building, giving residents a tease and a hype of what is to come.
In September, the husband and wife hope to open the doors so everyone can make use of the wide variety of “quality gym equipment and training space” that has been installed.
Mrs Georgiou said: “We’re really excited to be opening up soon because both of us remember the post office well and to be able to move in and bring the building back to life for people, that’ll be amazing.
“Ever since Covid, people want to look after themselves more, and we really want to help people in that way. For us, it’s about all-round health and wellbeing.
“With Cass Jasper’s, our gym experience manager, has a wealth of experience of working with different ages and levels. We can help everyone.
“It’s going to be really good, and we can’t wait to get it open!”
From August 2, they are also looking at starting early bird memberships, which will see customers access the equipment, including treadmills, cycling machines and weight benches.
They can also make use of fitness instructor-led and virtual workouts, personalised wellbeing and coaching support in the “welcoming community club”.
Peter Wexham, Liberal Democrat Leigh ward councillor, said: “It’s very exciting for residents. Lots of people will use the gym, and to see the post office building being used again is great.
“Anything to do something that is different to more and more cafes being placed in the area is good.
“I wish the owners all the very best of luck.”
Even though other sites across the world are open for 24 hours, the Leigh site will not be immediately due to planning consent given by Southend Council.
However, the owners plan to secure the right to stay open around the clock further down the line.
Anytime Fitness Leigh will be open 7am to 11 pm, all week.
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