It is estimated that it will take three weeks before the NSC fitness zone is operational following last week’s changing room fire.

A statement released by NSC management says the police and fire service have finished their investigations of the area and repair work can now begin.

The statement continues: ’The damage to the male changing area is extensive and as such the changing room will have to remain closed until further notice while a full refurbishment takes place.

’When the fitness zone and spa suite re-opens, male customers will be asked to use the changing facilities down the corridor by the main sports hall until the works have been completed.’

The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

During the fire, smoke entered the ventilation system which fed into the fitness zone area which has caused damaged to the ceiling tiles and air conditioning as well as deposited a layer of carbon on the fitness equipment.

While the ceiling tiles need replacing and the air conditioning a deep clean, the actual equipment in the fitness zone will require a clean, check and servicing from engineers from the NSC’s supplier, Technogym.

Management at the NSC believe this work will take three weeks to complete but will provide an update if this changes.

Despite this, there is some good news for NSC customers: ’As a thank you for to our current gym and spa members for remaining loyal to the NSC during these difficult times incentives and credits or extensions will be arranged directly with these customers.

’The NSC management team and staff would like to offer their sincere thank you to customers for their patience and support following this very unfortunate incident.’

For further information, ring 688588.