New community-focussed 24-hour gym to fill vacant town centre shop

Story posted on February 18, 2021

A NEW 24-hour gym is set to fill the large shop on Bank Street left vacant by clothes retailer, Peacocks.

As well as 24-hour access to a gym, Aztec Fitness Rooms will have two studios for fitness classes, and a “supplements and smoothie” bar.

And business partners, Chris Shuttleworth, owner of Primate Printing, and David Pearce, landlord of The Grapes on Bank Street, have plans to create strong connections between the gym and the community, getting involved in charity events and the promotion of fitness in the town.

Speaking to Melksham News, Chris said, “As the gym will be in the heart of the town, we are keen to create a real ‘community vibe’. And once we are up and running, we want to look into community-based projects, such as charity fundraisers, or maybe doing things with local schools to promote fitness. We want to be part of the community as a whole.”

Work has already begun on transforming the space, and it is hoped that the gym could be ready to open in late spring.

“We don’t want to give an exact date because of the ongoing Covid restrictions,” said Chris. “But if everything goes to plan, we are hoping for late spring as a rough idea. But of course it will all be dependant on what the Government lets us do.

“The gym will be open 24 hours, and there will be two studio rooms available for rental for martial arts, dance, and fitness classes. We will also be running our own fitness classes for members and non-members.

“We’re also planning to have a supplements and smoothie bar at the front of the building, available to members and non-members.

“Work has begun – it’s a very big job! But we want to get it absolutely perfect for when it opens. It’s been a bit of rollercoaster getting the project to this point, but it’s been really good fun, and we are really excited!”