'Healthy' boost for employment in East Belfast

A major new health club due to open in East Belfast in March 2002 is set to create 80 new jobs for the area.

As a £4 million investment, the 'Esporta' centre will be situated near Knocknagoney, on the main Belfast to Bangor road.

One of Europe's leading health and leisure club groups, Esporta has over 170, 000 members at its 40 clubs across the UK, Spain and Sweden and was voted UK Health Club of the Year in 2000 and 2001.

Esporta's Group Marketing Manager, Mike Berger-North, said: "While Esporta has a strong presence across Great Britain, breaking into the NI market is a significant step in the company's growth and development. There are a number of health and leisure providers already in the province but Esporta differentiates itself by its strong emphasis on the family market."

"This sector tends to be neglected by more traditional clubs but its needs are clearly reflected throughout Esporta. The 'Zone', for example, is an area designated specifically for children, housing facilities such as a children's pool, indoor and outdoor play areas, a baby 'zone', and an art and craft area. There is so much for children of all ages to do at the club, enabling parents to relax and use the facilities."

Esporta Belfast will also place a strong emphasis on 'lifestyle', its wellbeing centre offering an extensive range of professional beauty and therapeutic services. Other key facilities include a 20-metre pool, a comprehensive fitness arena with all the latest equipment and two aerobics studios.

Commenting on the 80 new jobs to be created, Mr Berger-North added: "We are now recruiting for all areas of the club - from qualified fitness instructors to chefs, bar-staff to child-care professionals - and are very keen to employ members of the local community. We want to hear from passionate and committed people who can deliver a five-star service in any of these areas." (MB)