A former Hackney Council office that had stood vacant for six years has been transformed into a temporary fitness facility, providing residents with an affordable option for exercise while major renovations take place at another local leisure centre.
Christopher Addison House, located on Wilton Way in Hackney Central, had remained largely unused since its previous occupation ended.
The building has now opened as a temporary Better Gym Hackney, serving the community during the refurbishment of Kings Hall Leisure Centre.
The facility occupies three floors and contains a comprehensive range of equipment, including free weights, cardiovascular machines and resistance training apparatus.
Dedicated areas have been allocated for group fitness sessions.
Programming extends to sessions designed specifically for younger members and those aged over 50, alongside activities connected to the Healthier Together Hackney weight management referral programme.
Pricing structures align with other Council-operated leisure centres, with concessionary rates reaching 50 percent.
The site represents one of the inaugural Council-owned properties to be returned to active use under the Mayor of Hackney’s Who Owns Hackney initiative.
This programme examines how land and buildings throughout the borough are currently utilised and considers how unused spaces might serve local communities more effectively.
The Mayor stated that the objective involves ensuring Hackney’s properties and facilities provide genuine benefit to residents.
According to the Mayor, the gym demonstrates the potential for converting underutilised buildings into accessible, affordable spaces that address community needs.
The Who Owns Hackney investigation continues to identify additional opportunities for Council-owned sites to be repurposed or reimagined in ways that directly advantage local people.