Bedford gym given prohibition notice after breaching Covid-19 regulations

A gym in Bedford has been handed a prohibition notice after it was found to have breached the current Covid-19 regulations by staying open.

Earlier this week, Bedford Today revealed how Gainz Fitness & Strength in Shuttleworth Road was refusing to shut despite the new national lockdown, arguing that mental wellbeing and the immune system rely on physical exerciseAnd yesterday (November 6), Bedford Borough Council and Environmental Health, supported by Bedfordshire Police officers, served owner Alex Lowndes with a prohibition notice. Three people who had attended the gym were also handed fixed penalty notices of up to £200.

Cllr Colleen Atkins, portfolio holder for community safety and regulatory services, said: “We know that this second lockdown is challenging for all businesses that are being asked to close, and alongside them we are calling on the Government to provide the financial support to help them get through it.

"However, businesses and individuals cannot be permitted to break the law that is in place to keep us all safe and we will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that this business, and others, adhere to the regulations that are in place to keep us all safe. It’s vital that we all play our part to reduce the spread of Covid-19, save lives and protect the NHS.”

But owner Alex told Bedford Today: "We are going to keep with the main thrust. This is bigger than Gainz Gym & Strength. We want gyms to be classed as essential by the Government. That is the goal."

Chief Superintendent John Murphy said: “We understand the impact these restrictions can have, but infection rates here in Bedfordshire are also rising at concerning levels so it is vital that everyone plays their part by taking personal responsibility and adhering to the rules.

“The vast majority of people are doing that, so it is extremely disappointing that this particular venue decided to ignore the rules which have been put in place to keep people safe. We were left with little option but to take enforcement action in partnership with colleagues from Bedford Borough Council.

“We understand that exercising is a priority for a lot of people, but we would urge you to find an alternative, such as a home workout or out in the open air."