New outdoor gym to open in north Leeds park

Work has begun the park on the groundwork for the gym, which will boast a rowing machine, pull up bar, bike and ski stepper among its top-of-the-range equipment.

The £35k project has been funded by Leeds City Council, the Friends of Roundhay Park, local Roundhay councillors and section 106 money from developers.

A contribution has also been made from Green Leeds, a charity which hands out grants for groups to use for environmental projects within the city.

The gym is expected to be completed by the end of this month. It will be suitable for people aged 14 and over and up to 17 people will be able to use the equipment at any one time.

Coun Christine Macniven (Lab, Roundhay) said: “Everyone can enjoy the benefits of Roundhay Park - from the lakeside walks to sports pitches there is something for everyone. The new outdoor gym will help people get fit and healthy and will be a great addition to the park. It was first suggested by very eager local residents who have helped us every step of the way - even going so far as to research the equipment.

“Free to use, open throughout the day and in a convenient location, we hope this will be a great asset for everyone in Roundhay. I’m glad we have been able to make a contribution to bring the outdoor gym to Roundhay and we would like to thank all of those who have worked with us to bring it about - including the Friends of Roundhay Park for their constant help, not least helping the project get over the final funding hurdle, Groundwork Leeds for all their help and the council officers who were very supportive throughout.”