28 Jul 2026
The Chapel Gym in Wheathampstead has launched a community Crowdfunder campaign to raise funds for heating and air conditioning, helping the much-loved local gym remain comfortable, safe and welcoming throughout the year.
The recent heatwave has highlighted just how hot the gym can become in summer, while in winter the historic chapel building can be difficult and expensive to heat. The charity is fundraising to install air source heat pumps, which would provide both heating and cooling.
The full project is expected to cost around £15,000. The Chapel Gym is asking the local community to help raise £7,500 and hopes that strong local support will help unlock match funding from Sport England towards the remaining cost.
The campaign has already raised more than £2,000, with donations from gym members, local residents and supporters.
The Chapel Gym is part of Wheathampstead Chapel Community Hub, a registered charity which promotes healthy living, wellbeing and community connection. Since opening its doors four years ago, the gym has become an important local facility, used by people of all ages and abilities.
However, as a small charity, the Chapel Gym only just covers its day-to-day operating costs. Membership income is used to keep the gym running, pay staff, maintain equipment and meet rising utility and building costs. There is not enough surplus to fund a major improvement project of this size without wider community support.
Julie Bell, trustee and treasurer of Wheathampstead Chapel Community Hub, said: “The Chapel Gym is here because the community helped create it. Now we need the community’s help again to make it fit for the future.
We are not a commercial gym with large reserves. We are a small local charity, and we work hard to keep membership affordable while covering our operating costs. Installing heating and air conditioning is a major investment for us, and we simply cannot do it without support.
This is not a luxury. A gym that is too hot in summer or too cold in winter can be off-putting for many people, particularly older members, people managing health conditions, young people, and those returning to exercise. We want the Chapel Gym to remain a safe, comfortable and inclusive place for everyone.”
The charity has already installed air conditioning in the Chapel Halls and has received very positive feedback from users. It now wants the gym to benefit in the same way.
Trustee and gym member Ginny Cooper added: “Our community fundraising target is £7,500. If enough people give what they can, and share the campaign with friends, family and neighbours, we believe this is achievable. Every donation, large or small, will help us move closer to keeping the Chapel Gym cool in summer, warm in winter and open for future generations.”
The Chapel Gym is asking local people to donate if they can, share the campaign, and help spread the word.
Donations can be made via the Crowdfunder page:
https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/chapel-gym-cool-summers-warm-winters
