Local fitness clubs facing eviction from the Rock Health building have been given a last-minute lifeline, after the site’s incoming owners stepped in to prevent them being forced out with nowhere to go ahead of their planned multi-million overhaul.
“We refuse to let this building’s next chapter begin with local businesses being left in the cold through no fault of their own,” said Neil Lomax, who – alongside his wife Faye – is due to complete the purchase of the Rock Health building later this month.
Evicted days before Christmas
The site, which was previously home to Guernsey Bowl and sold for just under £2.5m before undergoing a comprehensive redevelopment, has in recent years been home to a number of independent fitness, dance and wellbeing businesses operating under Ignite Studios, the main tenant.
Shortly before Christmas, sub-tenants were told they would have to leave, triggering anxiety among clubs that had built up loyal memberships but suddenly faced losing their base.
Explaining the situation, the Lomaxes said Ignite’s business model – which relied on flexibly sub-letting space to multiple operators – ultimately proved unsustainable, resulting in rent arrears and the surrender of its lease.
While the landlord had worked with Ignite to try to find a solution, the arrangement became unviable.
“We are giving these clubs time to find permanent new homes”
To protect the smaller clubs caught in the fallout, the Lomaxes have announced that all affected sub-tenants will be granted licences to remain in their existing spaces rent-free until 31 March 2026.
“By providing this three-month rent-free period, we are giving these clubs time to find permanent new homes on their own terms,” Mr Lomax said.
“If our construction schedule allows for a longer transition period past March, we will extend that stay to ensure every club successfully finds a new home.”
The regeneration schedule
Completion of the purchase is scheduled for 20 January 2026, paving the way for a multimillion-pound redevelopment.
Plans include expanding Guernsey Pilates as a flagship wellness offering and converting much of the building into a high-spec multi-sport arena capable of hosting sport and live events.
Structural surveys are underway, with construction expected to begin in spring.