A one-stop health hub has breathed new life into a derelict former bank, with the help of not-for-profit lender SWIG Finance.
Lyfe Health has taken over and renovated the premises in Bristol, which was left empty for three years following the closure of the Lloyds Bank branch in March 2021.
Launched in January, the centre on the corner of Badminton Road and Cleeve Road in Downend offers a range of services including state-of-the-art diagnostics, physiotherapy and chiropractic, a Reformer Pilates studio, a rehabilitation gym and multiple therapy rooms.
Clients benefit from bespoke treatment programmes based on diagnostic sessions using modern scanning technology, including gait and 3D movement analysis for more accurate diagnosis of joint and muscle problems.
An MRI scanner is being shipped over from Italy for use in diagnosing musculo-skeletal and joint issues.
As well as helping clients with dietary concerns – including IBS, Crohns and hormone deficiencies – in-house nutritionist Dr Hayley Edwards has curated a menu for the onsite coffee house and kitchen, which opened in March and is available to the public as well as clients.
The business, which was referred to SWIG Finance by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership, currently has seven employees and plans to create eight more full-time jobs over the next 12 months.
Lyfe Health is an offshoot of private healthcare operator The Medical, which operates nine centres and relocated its Cleeve Wood Road branch when given notice by its landlord.
Co-founder James Arthurs said: “We had been there 15 years, and when faced with a move, we considered replicating our Lyfe model which had been devised during the pandemic and launched in Bournemouth.
“That needed a bigger footprint, and we made enquiries about the Lloyds Bank building, which was just down the road. Old banks bring a bit of character, and we were able to do cool things in the vaults, which clients love.
“And while old buildings come with challenges, the landlord was very keen to help us bring the building back to life.”
SWIG Finance business manager Nicki Kimberley added: “It was clear that the parties involved are invested in and passionate about what they do, and they worked closely with me to provide the information and assurances needed to overcome challenges.
“It’s so satisfying to be involved in a project that will have a positive effect on the high street and its community.”
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