Graham Stuart MP has praised the transformation of South Holderness Leisure Centre in Preston after visiting the newly-renovated site.
Joined by East Riding councillors Sue Steel and Samantha Whyte, the Beverley & Holderness MP was guided around by centre manager Stuart Armstrong.
In May 2024, the leisure centre underwent a £150,000 refurbishment which saw dramatic improvements to the its fitness suite and reception area. Mr Stuart was also given the opportunity to test some of the new weights and resistance machines purchased as part of the refurbishment.
The enhancements to the fitness suite include heavier weights to encourage people interested in bodybuilding to attend, and air conditioning has been installed to make the gym more comfortable to use in the summer. The centre’s opening hours have been extended until 9pm to help users fit their exercise sessions around their working day. Such improvements and changes have led the centre’s membership figures to more than triple from 140 to over 600 in recent months.
During his visit, Mr Stuart also learned about the plans Mr Armstrong and his team have for the future of the centre, which include improved changing facilities, a classroom for essential courses such as First Aid and lifeguard training, and a further expansion of the gym to meet the growing demand. This will be possible thanks to another £90,000 that will be spent on the centre later this year.
Following his visit, the MP said: “It was fantastic to visit South Holderness Leisure Centre and see the outstanding improvements that Stuart and his team have delivered. The investment in state-of-the-art facilities is making a real difference to the community, giving more people the opportunity to get fit, socialise, and lead a healthier lifestyle. With their ambitious plans for the future, the centre is on an exciting path, and I look forward to seeing how it continues to develop.”
Mr Armstrong said: “We were thrilled to welcome Graham to the leisure centre and show him the improvements and additions we’ve made to the facility. Improving the health and fitness of local people is our main goal here, and I’d like to encourage both old and new members to come along, try out the new facilities and enjoy getting fit.”
By: Andrew Spence, LDRS
