We are a community of long-standing members who have been using our local Nuffield Gym in Finnieston for many years. This gym is not just a place to exercise, but it has become an integral part of our lives and community. We now face the threat of losing this cherished space to a development of new flats that will not only rob us of our gym but also mar the iconic local skyline we have grown to love, that is also part of Glasgow's own brand.

The proposed demolition and construction project threatens not only our fitness routines - which are central to our health and well being - but also the aesthetic beauty and character of our neighbourhood. The current planning application proposes the construction of 362 flats and 57 car park spaces. The flats could be built in several blocks up to a 9 storey height which will dramatically change the local skyline and flood the local area with many more people. This will put more demand on over stretched local services such as GPs, dentist and schools. According to data from The Scottish Government (2019), there is already an excess supply of flats in Glasgow city centre. However, there is a lack of accessible recreational facilities like our gym which is so well located - it is highly accessible by road, train, bike and on foot. It has circa 3000 members ranging from babies, young children to older adults in their 80s, it has many families, friends and work colleagues who all come to the gym to use the wide range of facilities - the Café, creche, pool, saunas, steam room, a huge gym, spin cycling, weights, beauty spa, climbing wall and a wide range of activity classes (including Yoga, Pilates, circuits and more). 

It is also important to know that Nuffield Health that owns the gym is the UKs largest healthcare charity - they are driven by a strong and long standing purpose to prevent illness by looking after mind and body. They not only offer the gym membership but also promote Programmes For All and actively seek to widen access to services and give people the tools to live a healthy life. 

As members we also believe that preserving community spaces like this gym contributes significantly towards maintaining mental and physical health amongst local residents, members and others who use the gym - something especially important during these challenging times when health should be prioritised above all else as we continue the slow economic and social recovery from COVID and whilst we all learn to balance busy stressful working lives with our health and well being. We know that in Scotland, and particularly in Glasgow, there are many health challenges. The number of people living with excess weight and obesity is increasing, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes and other lifestyle related illness are also on the rise. We also know that modern lifestyles place greater demands on our mental health. We know that exercise, social connection and positive community environments all contribute to overcoming these issues. 

So our ask is simple. Please stand with us against this proposed change. Let's save our beloved Nuffield Gym on Minerva Way, Finnieston, Glasgow from closure and prevent unnecessary construction of more flats that will have a huge negative impact on local residents and services, it will disrupt our healthy lifestyle routines, disrupt the ability of the gym to help contribute to improving the health and well being of several thousands of people and fundamentally damage the iconic local community and skyline.

Please sign this petition today and we will use this as part of our campaign to object to the planning application which will be considered soon by Glasgow City Councils Planning Committee. We do not know when this will be so please sign NOW so we can ensure we can object with your backing.

Many are with us already. Join us and lets stand together and save our Nuffield Minerva Way gym!