Bannatyne Group snaps up Cookridge Hall in seven-figure deal
Cookridge Hall has been acquired by the Bannatyne Group for an undisclosed seven-figure sum.
Dating back to 1721, Cookridge Hall is located in the outskirts of Leeds between Horsforth and Bramhope.
The 38,693 sq ft health club features a gym, swimming pool with sauna and jacuzzi and a licensed bar and restaurant.
The Bannatyne portfolio now comprises 72 clubs following this latest acquisition.
The listed building, set amongst an 18-hole golf course, was previously owned and operated by Esporta and subsequently, Virgin Active, before the health club and the adjacent golf club investments were acquired by the current owners.
The Bannatyne Group’s investment programme will see the gym floor completely refurbished with the installation of Technogym equipment and a functional training area. The addition of a new Bannatyne Spa is planned at a later date.
The health club will be renamed Bannatyne Health Club & Spa Cookridge Hall and memberships will be transferred to the Bannatyne Group.
Justin Musgrove, chief executive of the Bannatyne Group, said: “Cookridge Hall represents a further strategic purchase for the group as well as an exciting opportunity for us enhance both the property and member experience with targeted investment.
“Cookridge Hall is in a significant location, serving a wide area including Alwoodley, Horsforth, Otley, Ilkely and Wharfedale, and is a perfect addition to our growing portfolio. Its position is also ideal for one of our luxury spas and we will be planning this investment at a later stage.”
Adam Frontal, managing director of Cookridge Hall Health & Fitness and Cookridge Hall Golf Club, added: “The sale of the club made good business sense, we have grown the club from 1800 members to over 3600 members. We leave the club in a healthy position and are delighted with the improvements made.
“This transaction with Bannatyne has been extremely smooth and we know their plans will further improve the health club; we leave the club in good hands and wish Bannatyne and the staff all the best for the future.”
Jon Patrick, Christie & Co’s head of leisure and development who brokered the deal, concluded: “Our historic knowledge of the club and associated ownership structures enabled a discreet and confidential approach to be made with a smooth sale and purchase transition which appealed to both buyer and seller alike.”
Cookridge Hall Health & Fitness was advised by Sophie Davies & Phil Goldsborough of Shoosmiths who acted on the corporate sale and to Emma Collins & Jeremy Moore of Walker Morris who acted on the property sale.
