PureGym to open at Swanley Square Shopping Centre after flooding delays

A gym branch will finally be opening next week after a nearly two-month-long delay.

PureGym was initially supposed to welcome people to its latest branch in Swanley Square Shopping Centre just before Christmas.

However, flooding inside the building meant its December 20 opening date had to be pushed back to next Friday (February 7).

The 6,500 sq ft venue will be open 24/7 and will boast “hundreds of pieces of state-of-the-art equipment”.

There will also be a functional zone, free weights area, fixed resistance, cardio equipment and a fitness studio as well as a range of classes.

Certified personal trainers will be available at the branch.

The gym is replacing Wilko which collapsed into administration last August, eventually closing more than 400 stores and shedding all 12,500 jobs in October.

Plans were first submitted for the gym in May last year, which included the installation of new double doors and the addition of a ramp access and bike storage.

It is only taking up a section of the former Wilko site – with the remaining section still vacant.

However, a planning application was submitted at the end of last year for the installation of new shopfronts and external alterations covering the vacant section of the building,

No business has been confirmed yet to move in.

A PureGym spokesperson said: "In late November we experienced heavy rain which caused flooding and unfortunately meant we had to postpone the opening date.

“We contacted all members to let them know about the delay and our team have been working around the clock ever since to get the gym open as soon as possible.

“We know how eager members are to start working out at our brand new gym and apologise for the delay.

“We can't wait to welcome them through the doors at 12pm on Friday”.