A NEW gym is set to open in part of the former Debenhams store at the Merry Hill shopping centre.

German brand XTRAFIT will open a gym next summer occupying a "significant portion" of the former Debenhams site on the upper mall.

The expansive open-plan space will be transformed into a workout zone for all fitness levels.

It will be the first UK branch for the gym chain. 

A huge range of courses will be on offer, with both large and boutique-style classes, ranging from strength, and dance, to yoga, boxing, HIIT, and cycling, held in multiple state-of-the-art studios.

Open 24 hours a day, XTRAFIT will also allow members access to wellness facilities including saunas, massage chairs and luxury changing facilities.

The XTRAFIT announcement comes as Merry Hill continues to expand what if offers visitors beyond shopping, with the recent opening of Hollywood Bowl, Starbucks and Wagamama.

Laurence Benson, CEO at XTRAFIT, added: “Our Merry Hill opening will be the first step in our exciting UK mission: to better the health and wellness of everybody by building high-quality athletic environments at an accessible price-point.

“At Merry Hill we have the opportunity to pursue our mission at not only such a key regional location, but a destination that aligns with our community-focused values.”

Jonathan Poole, Centre Manager at Merry Hill, added: “We’re excited to bring the UK’s first XTRAFIT to Merry Hill.

"This also marks our first fitness space in the centre, and we look forward to introducing their incredible space, giving our visitors chance to experience premium but affordable fitness and wellness facilities before anyone else in the country.

“The centre is rapidly changing, offering shoppers unrivalled convenience plus more and more experiences.

"The options for how our visitors spend time with us is expanding considerably, with the recent openings of Starbucks, Wagamama and Hollywood Bowl.

"The addition of XTRAFIT in 2024 will further build on the exciting leisure and food and drink offering at the centre, with more exciting announcements coming soon.”