New equipment at Sports Centres
Significant works have just been completed at Ionad Spòrs Leòdhais in Stornoway and Lionacleit Sports Centre in Benbecula. Following the installation of new ‘state of the art’ Technogym equipment at the facilities in Stornoway and in Benbecula, service users are being invited to try out the new equipment for themselves!
The successful ‘Slainte Mhath!’ sports facility access scheme which began in January 2010 began to put significant pressure on the fitness suite at Ionad Spòrs Leòdhais. The new development includes a new air conditioned strength and conditioning area, which has the benefit of freeing up space for additional cardiovascular (CV) equipment and has increased the capacity of the facility by 30%.
The new equipment, which was funded entirely by NHS nan Eilean Siar is a welcome boost for the two facilities and it is hoped that it will encourage more people to use the gyms and sign up to the Slàinte Mhath initiative.
Facilities Manager at Ionad Spòrs Leòdhais, Tony Wade said: ‘I am delighted with the new cardiovascular equipment by Technogym which is the latest model on the market. Already we have had some excellent feedback from service users and the installation of extra equipment will allow more people to use our facilities. Our staff are on hand to assist with any questions service users may have regarding the new equipment and its operation’.
NHS Western Isles Chief Executive Gordon Jamieson commented: ‘This is an excellent example of joint working between the Health Board and Comhairle. A major aim of the Health Board is health improvement, health promotion and illness prevention. We are delighted to be able to support our local fitness suites by funding new equipment.
‘There is a clear link between increased physical activity and the reduction in the incidence of heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. The significant benefits in terms of mental health are also well documented. The investment in these facilities will increase the capacity of the sports centres and allow them to continue to widen access to both the public and patients.’
Adding his endorsement, Chair of Sustainable Development Committee, Councillor Archie Campbell said: ‘I am delighted that the new equipment is fully operational at both Lionacleit and Stornoway. Through the Slàinte Mhath scheme it has not only become more affordable to use the island facilities but we now have access to some of the best equipment in the country. I hope that many more people choose to make use of the excellent sports centre facilities we have on our very doorsteps.’
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