The building, fronting Woodside Road, had over several decades, been the main bar and club house, servicing both match days and private functions. Since 2013 it has been rented to Ultimate U Fitness, operating as a health, fitness and wellness centre.
However, the club has restructured its agreement with Ultimate U Fitness with the club now permanently occupying half the building and on Saturdays the whole building to service matchday and private hire requirements. Ultimate U Fitness will continue to operate as usual, in its new demise.
Development of the building will be over 2 phases.
Paul Crane, General Manager explained: “The first phase will provide more indoor cover on matchdays, with tables and chairs for customers of the FanZone bar as well as additional toilet facilities”. “This will be up and running just as soon as we have the room fit for purpose, we estimate over the next couple of weeks”.
“Plans for phase 2 are still being drawn up but will likely include more dedicated hospitality and bar facilities for both match day and private events”.
Club Chairman Barry Hunter added: “This change works for the club on so many levels. Not least the additional indoor space and a new source of revenue. It will also bring back a part of the club that has been such a social hub for a major part of our history.
He continued: “The timing of phase 2 will depend on our available funding, once we have met our ground capacity upgrade necessary for NLS. We may therefore need to remain patient for a period of time, but the important outcome is that we have the use of the building back in the club, forever”.
“I want to personally thank Dan Aguilera, owner of Ultimate U Fitness, for his support and understanding in making this new arrangement a reality and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership”