Southampton: Spartans Gym ‘still open’ despite new lockdown

A SOUTHAMPTON gym has remained open during coronavirus restrictions - and Southampton City Council would not say if it will take new action.

Spartans Gym is already facing legal action for allegedly breaching lockdown rules.

• Gym in Tier 4 Southampton 'refuses to close'

However, people in gym clothing could be spotted entering and exiting its premises in Millbank Street on Tuesday.

It comes after Boris Johnson announced a new national lockdown on Monday to curb soaring rates of coronavirus and stop the spread of a new mutant strain.

Under the new rules, people can only exercise outside. Gyms, golf courses, outdoor swimming pools and playing courts must all close.

• Police 'continue to monitor' gym which appears to be open despite Tier 4 rules
• Man accused of opening gym to face trial

According to police, the gym in the Northam area of the city has received reports of potential breaches on November 20, December 26, and December 28.

The Daily Echo snapped gym-goers outside Spartans on multiple occasions throughout the Tier 4 lockdown.

In November, Josh Gosling appeared at the city magistrates’ court accused of opening the gym during the second coronavirus lockdown.

He pleaded not guilty to two charges of failing to comply with reasonable instruction given by a relevant person in England.

• Gym lockdown charge: Man pleads not guilty - and insists he doesn't own or manage gym

The 28-year-old argued he is just a member and neither the manager or owner of Spartans.

Councillor David Shields has said the council is working with the police to monitor activity at business premises, including Spartans Gym.

The the council has initiated prosecution for breaches of the restrictions which occurred at Spartan’s gym last year, but did not address the reports of new breaches.

The council has not said if new action will be taken or if the gym will be closed.

Cllr Shields said: “Such rapid growth in infections suggests that the new strain of the virus is present in Southampton. The new strain appears to pass from person to person even easier than before and this makes it a huge threat to our communities.”

Spartans Gym did not respond when contacted by the Daily Echo.