Gym members have been left steaming mad at the loss of spa facilities at a health club.

Customers at Lockwood Park Health and Fitness Club in Lockwood have been told the sauna, aromatherapy and steam room are to go in a revamp.

It is claimed the changes were brought in without consultation and there will be no refunds on membership fees.

One man, who asked not to be named, said the changes had been announced in a brief mention in a notice posted in the club entrance.

He claimed members had been “warned off” from going public with their complaints and said: “A lot of people are angry about this.

“They say they need the space to expand the gym but the spa facilities are the reason many people are members here and that’s what makes it special.

“Membership costs £30 a year but there’s going to be no refund. I think they just want to force people to use expensive facilities elsewhere.”

The gym is run by Kirklees Active Leisure (KAL), the charitable trust which runs sports centres for Kirklees Council.

KAL took over the premises from Fitness First three years ago.

Last October the Examiner reported managers cut the evening opening hours of the steam room due to “inappropriate behaviour.”

Some members went in wearing underwear while some shaved in there and there were reports of swearing, spitting and verbal abuse.

Kirklees Active Leisure logo
Kirklees Active Leisure say the improved fitness area will be welcomed by the majority of customers

The man said he was disappointed at the loss of the facilities and added: “Kirklees Council promotes health and well being but yet closes down the spa. There are a lot of contradictions.”

A KAL spokesman said the fitness facilities needed to be increased and it was decided to expand into the health suite area.

The changing rooms were being improved and new equipment, including Wattbikes, or indoor cycle trainers, are being installed.

The spokesman added: “KAL staff have been proactive in telling customers about the changes and a large noticeboard displaying the information is situated in reception.

“It is also worth noting that during the refurbishment of Lockwood Park, KAL members will be able to use the facilities at the Stadium Health and Fitness Club for no additional charge.

“While KAL can appreciate the current health suite users will be disappointed at the loss of the facility, the improved fitness area will, we are confident, be welcomed by the majority of customers.”