A gymnastics center that was forced out of its previous home due to financial hardship has now been relaunched within the Dimensions Leisure Centre. Stoke-on-Trent City Council closed the Burslem Gymnastics Center last year after revealing it would cost £1.85 million to keep it open.
Council plans to move the center to Dimensions were later approved – despite backlash from service users who feared the equipment would have to be downsized.
Dimensions Leisure Center is now open over the weekend.
Head coach Matthew Rowley said: “It was fantastic. All the feedback we got was great and there was a good turnout.
“We had the team and the developmental gymnasts. There were about 40 gymnasts.
“We downsized a little bit, but kept most of the equipment. We lost the trampoline and foam pit area. However, we got a new set.”
“This is our new permanent home and Dimensions is a leisure center with lots of other facilities. Some parents have joined the health club while some children train for up to three hours. They said they could also make use of the other facilities and could take the children swimming for free.
“We have filled all the classes with taster sessions and opened up to recreational gymnasts. We teach ages 5 to 11 and offer classes for children ages three and up.”
Mum Hannah Whewall, 34, said: “It’s fantastic. Everything looks very new and modern and the viewing area is really good.”
“We used to go to the center in Burslem. I’m happy with Dimensions because I can take my kids swimming while one of them does gymnastics, and there’s a play area and a little café. I think it’s a positive step.”
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