The first of five new outdoor gyms for Croydon’s parks officially opens in New Addington next weekend.
A launch event is planned for 11am – 1pm on Saturday 18 November. There will be demonstrations on how to use the equipment, free goodie bags, and talks on how easy it is to swap to a healthier lifestyle.
The £90,000 facility is being installed by the council on the site of the former pitch and putt course on Goldcrest Way.
It provides free-to-use fitness equipment that can be used all year round.
The council is investing a total of £370,000 in the five new gyms, with others planned for Purley Way Playing Fields, Upper Norwood Recreation Ground, King George’s Field and Grangewood Park.
The New Addington scheme has made use of cash allocated to Croydon’s ward councillors each year for them to use on things that are seen as local priorities.
Mental health charity, the Matt Palmer Trust, is contributing £100,000 towards the costs of the project. The trust is a non-profit organisation that supports the mental well-being of men of all ages in the UK and Ireland.
Similar gyms are already in place at Lloyd Park, Duppas Hill, Coulsdon Memorial Ground, and Thornton Heath and Sanderstead recreation grounds, and are regularly used by a wide range of people.
“This is an exciting programme of investment in our parks and doubles the number of outdoor gym facilities in Croydon. We’re aiming to ensure everybody has easy access to free facilities that they can use to stay fit and healthy. This investment is another clear demonstration of our commitment to our parks and green spaces.”
Councillor Timothy Godfrey, cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport
