Balance Nelson Bay has become one of the first Port Stephens businesses to fall victim to the COVID-19 lockdown, following confirmation this week the gym would not be reopening.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The closure was announced on the website of the Wests Group, which operates the fitness club out of Nelson Bay Diggers.
"Due to the COVID-19 government imposed restrictions we have made the difficult decision not to reopen Balance Nelson Bay and Cardiff clubs. As a result of the restrictions we have had to pivot our focus and resources to three venues to ensure adequate staffing levels and hygiene practices to provide the safest possible environments for our members to train," the announcement stated.
When further questioned about the closure, a Wests spokesperson told the Examiner that Balance Nelson Bay had not been economically viable for some time.
"This has been exacerbated by COVID-19 including the forced temporary closure of the health club and government imposed trading restrictions, resulting in the decision to not re-open Balance Nelson Bay. Upon the closure of Balance Nelson Bay all memberships were suspended and memberships paid in advance have been or will be refunded," the spokesperson said.
There were no response to questions about staff and what plans, if any, the owners had for the vacated space.
Soldiers Point resident Peter Kelly said that he was devastated on hearing the news. "Balance was more than a gym, [it was] a meeting place where older members felt comfortable with a blend of younger people who made you feel welcome by friendly trainers and staff."
Tomaree Business Chamber's Peter Clough said that the fallout from the COVID shutdown was yet to be fully understood. "I am aware of only two other businesses - a gift store in the Nelson Towers and hair & beauty salon in Donald Street - that will not be reopening," he said.
"That said, I am also aware of a range of new businesses moving into the town centre, including the possibility of a fitness/pilates centre, flower store and tattoo studio."
The closures come just weeks after Target announced that it would be closing its Salamander Bay Target Country store in early-mid 2021.
"We are committed to providing every opportunity for redeployment for our team members who will be affected by these changes," a Target spokesperson said in a message to customers.
Earlier this year the Nelson Bay branch of the Newcastle Permanent closed its doors and ceased trading on March 13. "There will be no job losses, with all affected staff to be relocated to other branches," a spokesperson said.
IN OTHER NEWS
