Bethnal Green Weightlifting Club secures a three-month extension to discuss future plans after eviction notice from Tower Hamlets Council.
London: An East London weightlifting club, thought to be the oldest in the city, has been granted an extra three months at its venue. This comes after the club faced eviction threats.
Bethnal Green Weightlifting Club received a Section 25 eviction notice from Tower Hamlets Council in July 2024. The notice required them to vacate by the end of this month.
In December, the club rallied to stop the eviction. They gathered signatures for a petition to save their venue from closing down.
A spokesperson from Tower Hamlets Council announced the extension until April 30. This gives the club more time to discuss plans and explore alternatives.
Head Coach Martin Bass expressed relief about the extension. However, he remains worried about the club’s future.
Mr. Bass mentioned that the site is planned for a “Residents’ Hub.” Yet, a Freedom of Information request revealed no immediate plans for the premises.
Mr. Bass questioned why the council would want to replace a 100-year-old institution with a hub that lacks clear plans.
The club is a non-profit organization that has produced world champions for Great Britain at the Paralympic Games and Commonwealth Championships.
Mr. Bass traced the club’s history back to 1926, though it may have started even earlier. The club moved to its current location on Turin Street in 1948.
Members were devastated to hear about the eviction. They say the club has been a lifeline for many.
Taras Lyntovski and his wife, Yana, joined the club after fleeing Ukraine in 2022 due to the invasion. Yana is now one of Great Britain’s top powerlifters.
Their seven-year-old son is also a member. Mr. Lyntovski praised the club for making them feel at home quickly.
He said the gym helped them adjust after leaving their country. He believes no other gym in the UK has produced as many top athletes.
Barnie Skinner joined the club three years ago. He traveled from Kent to train and eventually moved to East London for easier access.
Mr. Skinner sees the club as a community. He enjoys training and socializing with friends there.
Ali Jawad, a British Paralympian, won a silver medal in powerlifting at the 2016 Paralympics. He has represented Great Britain in three other Paralympic Games.
Mr. Jawad is considering a comeback for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. He worries that closing the club would deny him and others the chance to train.
A Tower Hamlets Council spokesperson stated they are working with the club. They hope to find a positive resolution and recognize the club’s importance to the community.
