Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre unveiled its £400,000 gym refurbishment this week, delivering what the council are describing as a "state-of-the-art fitness facility to the local community".

Originally scheduled for completion in summer 2025, the project was finished more than six months ahead of schedule as part of a broader improvement programme by Everyone Active, which operates the facility in partnership with North Herts Council.

Over the past month, work has been underway to transform the fitness space at the leisure facility, on Fishponds Road.

The gym space has been expanded with a complete layout redesign, knocking through into an unused ground-floor storage area to form part of a spacious new strength training section.

The two-floor gym has been reconfigured to improve accessibility, with strength equipment previously located on the first floor now relocated to the ground floor for easier access for disabled users.

The upgrade features state-of-the-art equipment from Life Fitness. This includes new cardio machines such as arc trainers, cross trainers, treadmills and rowers, alongside advanced strength training equipment like dual pulleys, lat pulldowns, leg presses and squat racks.

Fitness enthusiasts will also benefit from premium Hammer Strength plate-loaded machines and a reconfigured free weights area with benches and dumbbells.

The space has been fully redecorated in Everyone Active's signature red and black theme, complemented by modern LED lighting and rubber flooring designed for comfort and noise reduction.

The redesign also maximised available space by transforming the entryway and former staff desk area, making room for additional equipment while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

The gym officially reopened to members on Sunday 22 December, just in time for the festive season, following the completion of work on Saturday.

Chris Williams, Area Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: "We are delighted to have completed this major project and are confident the community will enjoy the enhanced facilities.

"The improvements mark a significant step forward for the district's leisure facilities, and we hope that the transformations will create even more opportunities for locals of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to commence or continue their fitness and wellness journey with us."

The revamped gym follows a series of recent improvements at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre, including the introduction of Everyone Active's first Reformer Pilates studio, a new spin studio, and the refurbishment of two other studios.

These upgrades form part of a £1.1 million investment in North Herts leisure facilities by Everyone Active, which took over the council's leisure contract in April this year.

Thanks to further investment from North Herts Council, the member change area and health suite within the fitness facilities will be refurbished in the new year.

Cllr Mick Debenham, North Herts Council's Executive Member for Leisure, said: "We're thrilled to see the completion of this fantastic gym upgrade at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre. This investment highlights our commitment to improving local leisure facilities and ensuring they are accessible, welcoming, and equipped to meet the needs of all residents. The state-of-the-art equipment and reconfigured space will make a real difference to everyone looking to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle."