Crowland Lesiure and Wellbeing Centre set for big opening under manager Johanna Paice

A new gym’s manager is raring to go ahead of its big opening date.

Plans for Crowland Leisure and Wellbeing Centre have been in the pipeline for a number of years, and finishing touches are now being added to the facilities - with staff hoping to be open by the start of February.

Centre manager Johanna Paice (24), who has lived in Crowland for five years and has personal training and gym instructor qualifications, is excited to be part of the project.

She was originally a volunteer for the Crowland Health and Wellbeing Trust before being asked if she wanted to take on a full-time role.

“I can’t wait. I think it’s going to be really good,” she said.

“It is something that people have always wanted.

“Crowland is getting so much bigger with all the new developments, and it’s definitely needed. Hopefully there’s a supermarket coming next!

“I got my teeth into it and it’s been fun - and stressful at the same time.”

The gym has been built inside part of the former St Guthlac’s School site on Postland Road, with new weight and cardio machines delivered by UK Gym Equipment in Whittlesey during the past few weeks.

A soft launch will take place this Sunday (January 23), with residents invited to come down and have a look around.

More than 400 people, both from Crowland and surrounding areas, have registered interest in taking out a membership so far.

“Any money we make here goes back into the charity,” Johanna added.

“So we can get new equipment with the money we make, more staff, and offer more and better classes.”

The centre will offer a number of classes in addition to the gym, with five-a-side football, Zumba, trampolining, badminton and roller hockey amongst the activities.

At the moment, full memberships are available for £25 per month - with opening hours from 8am-9.30pm.

There are also off-peak memberships and day passes available.