A gym in Chesham is expected to close next month as plans for a renovation have been approved.

Chesham Moor Gym and Swim, which boasts hundreds of members, will see its gym area ‘double in size’, whilst the changing facilities will also be upgraded.

The leisure centre is also gaining a café, which will be a first for that area of the town.

The total project will cost roughly £1.3million, and it is hoped that work will begin in the middle of November.

Conservative councillor Joseph Baum of Chess Valley told the Free Press: “This is a very unique facility and as it is owned by the council, we are committed to looking after it the best we can.

“We have signed off the contract and construction works are due to start next month, and whilst this is a very special facility, it is important that everyone knows, it won’t lose its community feel, despite the changes.

“It is very much the heart of everyone in the area.”

The facility has been in the area for well over two decades, and is frequently used by many people in the area.

It has an average score of 4.5/5 from 161 Google Reviews, but after it’s soon-to-be revamp, councillor Baum hopes this will encourage more people to join as members of the gym.

He continued: “We want to move it as quickly as possible but if we are looking at time scales, it will more than likely open in the Spring of next year.

"We want to minimise disruption as possible, but we also want to improve the facility so that residents and members can get a very positive experience.

“The council is very committed to making sure that this brilliant facility will stand the test of time for many years ahead.

“The gym area will double which will be great for members, and the café will also be a huge boost.

“This will be great for mums and dads who can have a sit down when they drop off their kids for lessons, and this café will be open to the public.

“So you don’t need to be a member for that.

“It is also the first café for the Waterside area of Chesham which is huge.

“We know how much of a great asset Chesham Moor Gym and Swim is, and we are looking forward to improving the facilities.”

No closing date has been confirmed as of yet.

Members are encouraged to call Chesham Moor Gym and Swim for more information ahead of their temporary shutdown next month.