YWCA Central Club opens ‘The Bridge’ women’s fitness centre

The women's gym and public cafe has opened in the building which until a year ago was occupied by Novas Scarman Group's Contemporary Urban Centre.

The Bridge is the new name for the YWCA Central Club charity, established in 1932, which was until recently based in Portland Place W1.

Female residents and office workers queued on Wednesday evening to meet Lucy Shuker, Britain's top female wheelchair tennis player, and get a first view of the women-focused fitness centre offering a gym with the latest equipment and a programme of fitness classes.

The cafe on the ground floor has been refurbished and renamed Kitchen @ The Bridge. It will continue to be open to the public – men as well as women – and provide free wifi.

"I am delighted that our new venture, The Bridge, has now opened; I am certain that this venue will prove a major asset to women in Southwark and south London," said YWCA Central Club board chair Alexandra McAdam Clark.

"We aim to reach all women and our women-only gym is unique in size and concept in London. We are proud to be able to offer these facilities and we look forward to working with community groups, women who work in the area and women of all abilities."

Among those present at the opening was Cathedrals ward councillor Adele Morris. Guests were welcomed by the staff team which included new gym manager Julie Harris who said that she would be cycling to work.

The Bridge including the cafe is open six days a week Monday to Saturday.

• www.thebridge-uk.org