As residents of Woolwich, we call for the immediate restoration of 24/7 operating hours at PureGym Woolwich. For many of us, this gym has been a cornerstone of our well-being, providing a safe and accessible space to exercise regardless of the time of day.

The change in operating hours, brought about by noise complaints from council workers residing in the building above the gym(as has been relayed), has disproportionately affected those with unconventional work schedules. Many members, myself included, pay over £40 per month for access to facilities we are now unable to use due to restricted hours.

In a bustling city like Woolwich, where countless individuals work late shifts or unorthodox hours, 24/7 gym access isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. This is supported by the 2018 UK Active Report, which notes a 72% increase in the number of 24/7 fitness facilities since 2015, demonstrating their importance in modern life.

The decision to restrict operating hours raises significant concerns. Who moves into a busy city center, directly above a gym, and complains about noise? The building's location and its surroundings were well-known. Yet, rather than these residents adjusting to their chosen environment, the needs of the wider community have been ignored. This appears even more unfair when considering the complaints originated from council workers. Would this issue have been handled the same way if it were ordinary residents voicing their concerns?

The restricted hours have created another problem: overcrowding. With everyone now forced to fit their workouts into a much shorter window, the gym is consistently busy throughout its operational hours. This means members often face long waits for machines and overcrowded workout spaces, making it nearly impossible to complete a workout efficiently.

If noise is truly such a pressing issue, what’s next? Will the residents above request that cars stop driving late at night on the busy street they live on? Of course not, because they can’t. The gym should not be an exception. The Council exists to listen to and serve the needs of its broader community, not just a select few.

It is deeply unfair that hundreds of people are being inconvenienced because of a small number of complaints. Fitness facilities like PureGym not only support physical health but also play a critical role in improving mental health and fostering a sense of community. By reducing its operating hours, this vital resource is being stripped away from those who need it most.

We respectfully demand that Woolwich PureGym returns to its 24/7 operating schedule to accommodate the diverse lifestyles and working patterns of its members. For many of us, these hours were the only way we could maintain a healthy and balanced routine.

Please sign this petition to stand with us in restoring accessibility, fairness, and inclusivity at Woolwich PureGym. Let’s ensure that health and fitness remain a right, not a privilege.