Central YMCA Club, in London, is being re-launched following a six-month £2.6m redevelopment programme designed to increase the club's membership base.

The 116,000sq ft club, which first opened on Tottenham Court Road in 1974, now features an expanded CV zone, a new free weights and cycling studio as well as more exercise rooms, a GP referral zone and changing facilities. There is also improved disability access to the club’s 25m swimming pool, with the installation of a new hoist and accessible lift, and the introduction of three treatment rooms for holistic therapies.

The improvements have been designed by Cheshire-based Pozzoni, while the new fitness equipment will be supplied by Technogym, Precor and Keiser. "The changes are dramatic and significant, both in scale and scope,” said Barry Cronin, the club’s executive director. “The outcomes will benefit every member; offering more to those who come here for their regular work-outs, as well as enabling us to meet the high demand for places on our healthy lifestyle, medical referral, community and kids’ activity programmes."

The launch, which will take place 29 January, will be attended by Gerry Sutcliffe, minister for sport. Sutcliffe said: “More and more people understand why sport matters.  And increasingly people with busy lives need facilities close at hand – near to home or near to work – that they can use to stay healthy. 

"Nationally, YMCA is the largest voluntary sector organisation, providing help to half a million people each year through its range of health and fitness programmes. Organisations like the YMCA have a crucial role to play, as well as the government and bodies like Sport England and local councils, in achieving [affordable and quality facilities].” Details: morethanjustagym.co.uk