A transformative new fitness facility has officially opened in the heart of Hull, marking a significant milestone for local residents. The Peel Project community gym, supported by Places for People (PfP) and Places Leisure, aims to provide a safe, inclusive and empowering environment designed specifically to meet the needs of the area.
The project was born from a clear local demand for affordable and culturally sensitive fitness options. The space was designed by the community, for the community, with a focus on removing the social and financial barriers that often prevent people from staying active. Among its standout features are exclusive weekly women-only sessions supported by a free creche, alongside dedicated youth provision and affordable memberships.
Beyond traditional exercise, the facility serves as a unique hub that integrates health services and youth support. The fully refurbished site includes a main gym floor equipped for cardio and strength training, a boxing ring, and a combat fitness area. The building also houses a youth hub and flexible space for health, wellbeing, and statutory services to deliver outreach sessions.
Jamal Choudhury, Co-Founder and Managing Director of The Peel Project, added: “This gym has only been possible because of the belief and support of our partners, and I want to sincerely thank Places for People, Places Leisure and everyone who has worked with us over the past 12 months to help make this happen. Together alongside 1500+ hrs of volunteer support, we’ve created a state-of-the-art, community-led facility in the heart of Central Ward.
“I’m genuinely excited about the impact this will have on the area. This facility gives us the opportunity not only to improve health and wellbeing and introduce it to new audiences and young people, but to grow as an organisation – developing our staff and volunteers, strengthening our reputation, and building the foundations to deliver even more opportunities for the community while advancing our five core social outcomes.”
Places Leisure, part of PfP, donated £24,800 worth of equipment to the new gym including cardio machines, strength and resistance machines, free weights and boxing equipment. They also worked with partners to supply storage, logistics, and servicing from PSLT Fitness Solutions and additional equipment from D2F.
Richard Cowley, Director of Communities North, for Places for People said: “This gym is more than a fitness space – it’s a symbol of what can be achieved when communities and partners work together. As the UK’s leading social enterprise, PfP is in a unique position to be able to bring together multiple parts of our group to help and support organisations like The Peel Project in breaking down barriers to health and wellbeing and creating thriving communities.
“Supporting projects like The Peel Project is exactly what we aim to do – help local organisations grow stronger and make a lasting difference.” The gym is located at: The Peel Project Community Gym and Youth Hub, 2 Leonard St, Hull HU3 1SA.
You can take a look at the inside in our photo gallery below.