Public reports pack PDF 3 MB - Blaby District Council

4. Fitness Suite and Dance Studio Development
The Fitness suite is under utilised and currently has old equipment that is fast
approaching the end of its life span. Replacing with the same equipment is
considered to have little or no prospect of generating a return or enhancing the
programme on offer. It is proposed to remove all gym equipment from the fitness
suite. Mobile equipment will be added to enable the space to also be used as a
versatile multi activity area, aimed particularly at 6 -16 year olds. This equipment can
also be utilised in the Dance Studio, elsewhere around the building or even in our
parks and open spaces.
The Dance Studio was created in 2007 from a squash court. It is now in need of
redecoration and currently offers 5 classes per week, doubles up as a overspill
meeting room and is well used during school holidays for the successful kids activity
schemes that have been running since the summer of 2010. The Dance studio will
have a mirror wall added and new equipment which will include a Transverse
Climbing Wall which is a virtual climbing experience generated by computer.
Reasons
• The Fitness suite space can be better utilised to increase footfall.
• The gym equipment is fast approaching the end of its life and will require
investment with little or no additional return.
• The new offer better supports the Councils corporate aims with respect to 6-16 year
olds and the disabled, community segments currently under provided for within our
programmes.
• Creates funding opportunities and has the potential to reduce anti social behaviour
in the district
• Is attractive to schools and emergency services and other community groups.
• Reduces the risk of obesity in young people.
• The offer for 6-16 years would fill a gap in provision and provide a complete range
of activities from birth to retirement and beyond thereby addressing more fully the
ambitions around Healthier lifestyles and reducing obesity.
Financial
The Capital Costs of the work is estimated at £40,000.
Revenue spend is planned to include additional Dance/Activity leader wages (19 hrs
per week) £11,300pa (actual spend will depend on demand and income will more
that balance expenditure).
Potential Barriers
• None identified
Update
The proposal and cost estimate has not changed from that approved by Cabinet in
July 2011. The costs estimate remains at £40,000.
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