º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ invests in a new health and fitness development
Work is underway at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ to build a brand new health and fitness centre.
The £5.6 million investment by the University will improve its health and fitness provision and create the new centre, overlooking the º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ Stadium and the picturesque landscape situated at the West end of campus.
The complex, which is being built by the construction company Kier, will contain the latest technology and state of the art equipment from fitness specialists Technogym.
In the 860sqm health and fitness gym there will be over 80 items of cardio-vascular equipment and 50 plus fixed and free weight stations, alongside a core stretch area.
Also included in the development are two fitness studios, and a new sports hall that will provide four badminton courts, as well as basketball, netball and volleyball activity.
There will also be separate changing rooms for the sports hall and the fitness complex, as well as a lounge and break out areas.
The investment is not only significant in developing the University’s health and fitness provision, but will also support the ambitious target of having 75% of students being physically active at least three times a week.
Once completed, the complex will increase capacity and allow for approximately 5,000 members.
Mark Davies, strategic manager for sports operations at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ Sport, who is overseeing the project said:
“The fact that the University has decided to fund this development demonstrates how we continue to lead the way in offering the best sport, health and fitness facilities, not only to our students but also to staff, partners on campus and the wider community.”
To support the development of the new centre, and to deliver increased student participation, the University has already started the process to recruit a health and fitness manager. Mark Davies adds:
“The post of health and fitness manager is an exciting opportunity not only to manage and create a vibrant and engaging new centre, but also to play a key role in planning and marketing our activities before we open for business.
“The fact that we are recruiting in the early stages of the project illustrates how we are seeking somebody who can be proactive in shaping the look and feel of the centre, and play a significant role in achieving our participation targets.”
The new centre is scheduled to be opened in October 2014 in readiness for the new academic year.
Further details about the vacant post can be found online.