WEIGHT has been lifted off the shoulders of a national gym group after bagging a sought-after city site.

The Gym is set to open a new gym above Sainsbury’s in Portswood next month.

The site was originally earmarked for PureGym after proposals were submitted back in July 2019, but The Gym was successful in procuring the space.

Daily Echo: Generic The Gym pictureGeneric The Gym picture

And with the grand opening date less than four weeks away, excitement is building.

General Manager of The Gym in Portswood, Debra Pallet, said: “I am absolutely buzzing.

“The reason we have chosen Portswood is that after looking at the area we saw it doesn’t have a gym or gym facilities close by.

“After acquiring the site, me and my assistant general manager have felt so heartened by the response from local people and businesses.

“It is very community-based area and people look out for each other.”

Debra hopes having a gym in the area will attract more residents and students to the high street, which will, in turn, support independent businesses.

She said: “I think we have made the right decision.

“Portswood is a fabulous area and I am hoping we will help the residents and shops by bringing more business.”

The Gym officially opens in Portswood at midday on Monday June 13.

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