Gym user blasts ‘disgusting’ state of council-run amenity

A gym user has blasted the ‘disgusting’ state of amenities at a council-run leisure centre in Bispham.

William Eadie, 61, said the condition the equipment at Moor Park Health and Leisure Centre on Bristol Avenue was unacceptable and needed urgent action from Blackpool Council.

Mr Eadie, who said his own professional job entailed  ‘infection control’,  said he was particularly concerned about the amenities from a hygiene perspective and called for basic but urgent repairs to the torn equipment.

Blackpool Council said increased use of he gym had led  to an increase in wear and tear and said that a refurbishment project was planned.

Mr Eadie said: “The state of the gym leaves a lot to be desired.

“All of the weight benches are absolutely disgusting, breach all infection control policies and can only be impossible to clean effectively.

“The fact that Blackpool Council police the local cafés and restaurants and are quick to condemn those that fail to meet the standards of cleanliness that they insist upon makes this even worse.

“Can they explain to me how this equipment is cleaned effectively each evening with the foam soaking in sweat and other bodily fluids.

“It’s absolutely disgraceful that the place is open to the public with this equipment in such a poor state. The contempt for the members who are paying to use this facility is clear to see.

“Blackpool Council must act to replace or repair this equipment immediately, not in a months’ time or next year but now.

“If not, then I will take all steps necessary to prove that this place is a risk to public health.”

What the council said

Cllr Jo Farrell, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing said: “Equipment is regularly cleaned at the leisure centre and Active Blackpool also provides cleaning materials in its gyms, encouraging all users to wipe down equipment after use.

“However, the growing membership numbers at our popular Moor Park Health and Leisure Centre has increased the wear and tear on the upholstery of some equipment.

“We want all our leisure centre users to have the best experience so a full gym redevelopment and refurbishment project is planned for Moor Park, with works scheduled to begin in June.

“The refurbishment will incorporate 19 new ‘stations’ and the reupholstery of existing equipment, as well as several upgrades including lighting and decoration.”