Title: Lincoln Gyms Unexpectedly Shutter: Locals Express Outrage Over Abrupt Closure of Yarborough and Birchwood Centres
The sudden, unannounced closure of Yarborough and Birchwood leisure centres has left fitness enthusiasts in Lincoln feeling shocked and betrayed. Managed by Active Nation on behalf of the City of Lincoln Council, these centres abruptly ceased operations late Wednesday, primarily due to spiralling costs, leaving locals blindsided.
Thursday morning saw unassuming gym-goers arrive at the Yarborough centre, only to be met with a locked door. The council is now considering its options, including the potential reclamation of these properties. Members, including Mauva Jessel, Nina Hill, and Elise Rothwell worry about financial losses they may have incurred. Nina exclaimed, ‘We paid £150 for annual memberships in February, without a physical receipt. That money, it seems, has been wasted.’
Pat McGeough, a member for 17 years and aged 79, conveyed her disappointment: ‘It’s unbearable that it’s closed. I must find an alternative, but this place is irreplaceable.’ Similarly, Michael Curtis, a regular six-day-a-week visitor was dumbfounded, saying, ‘I just paid £125 for the next year. They were selling memberships as though everything was alright, just yesterday.’
Both Yarborough and Birchwood centres, beyond gyms, provided amenities such as studios, swimming pools, and 3G pitches. The City of Lincoln Council acknowledged these closures’ impact and recognised the relentless effort of the staff under the challenging conditions. Customers with pre-paid memberships have been urged to contact their bank, card provider, or the soon-to-be-appointed liquidator/administrator.
In a regretful announcement, Active Nation stated, ‘Due to the insurmountable utility crisis and its subsequent challenges, no alternative providers could be found, likely indicating an indefinite closure of the centres.’ Active Nation expressed heartfelt gratitude to Lincoln residents for their consistent support since 2007.
Although locals have expressed frustrations about a perceived lack of transparency from the council over the shock closure, specific details of potential foreknowledge cannot be confirmed at this time.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk.
