Seaham gym appeals for support as it faces closure

ATD Fitness, in Seaham Grange Industrial Estate, Seaham, is having to leave its current premises at the end of the year after being told its lease will not be renewed.

Andrea Dixon, who set the business up six years ago, said: “While we fully understand that business decisions have to be made, this leaves us facing a very uncertain future and desperately searching for a new home.”

Andrea runs the business alongside her husband, and believes ATD Fitness is “far more than just a gym”.

She said: “Over the past six years, we have built a thriving community that supports hundreds of local people every single week.

"We have helped members lose weight, improve their physical and mental health, rebuild confidence, overcome anxiety, make lifelong friendships and completely transform their lives.

“What started as a small dream has grown into a community hub where people of all ages and abilities feel welcome.

"For many of our members, ATD isn’t simply somewhere they come to exercise – it’s part of their daily routine, their support network and in some cases, a lifeline.”

This family business supports more than 200 members and has a timetable full of classes, personal training, online coaching, community events and charity fundraisers.

Andrea is now appealing to the local community, business owners, landlords and anyone who may know of a suitable commercial premises to come forward.

She is also looking for a large building in the Seaham area that is around 2,000 to 3,000 square feet that could accommodate a gym facility and classes.

Andrea said: “The support we have received from the community over the years has been incredible, and we are hopeful that someone out there may be able to help us find a solution.”

She added: “It would be such a shame to see a community that has worked so hard to build itself lose a place that means so much to so many people.”