A fitness centre has confirmed it will close for good - despite months of “incredible passion” from users lobbying to keep it open.

Campaigners fought to save the YMCA fitness centre in Elmfield Avenue, Crouch End, following the news that it could shut as early as April 28.

The centre faced higher energy costs, reduced use since the Covid pandemic and new competition nearby.

Supporters' fears were eased slightly in March when a promising YMCA update said the centre could become “cost-neutral” by June, with users agreeing to pay more for memberships in an effort to save the centre.

But members have now received an email stating that the centre will close at midday on June 30.

This Is Local London: YMCA fitness centre in Crouch End will closeYMCA fitness centre in Crouch End will close (Image: Street View)

A statement reads: “Whilst we welcomed 77 new members in May as part of our recent promotion (May for free), sadly we have also had a further 36 members cancel their memberships. 

“Unfortunately, despite best efforts, membership income is the same as this time last year against increased costs. Membership numbers will not be able to sustain the costs of running the centre despite the intermediate savings on leased equipment and running the centre with minimal staffing.”

YMCA says that staff have been informed of the decision and efforts will be made to transition them to other employment.

Within the next three weeks, YMCA has pledged to maintain a full programme of classes and to keep the gym floor fully functioning until the centre shuts.

This Is Local London: A campaign group pictured earlier this yearA campaign group pictured earlier this year (Image: Supplied)

Despite the news, the email claims the last few months have been “a real triumph” in showing the community come together and fight to keep the centre open.

More than 2,000 people have signed a petition and more than 100 from the YMCA Member Steering Group have been backing a “Save Our Gym” campaign.

And following a consultation that ended in March, members agreed to proposals of increased fees from £35.99 to £49.99.

Catherine West, Labour MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, described the centre as a “fantastically popular community facility” and was among those lobbying for it to continue running.

Chris East, director of community and enterprise at YMCA London City and North, previously said rising energy costs, lasting impacts from the pandemic and the opening of a competitor have all been contributing factors to the financial loss.