New state-of-the-art gym to open at Exeter Science Park in partnership with LED
A major new gym is set to open at Exeter Science Park this winter, with The Engine offering high-quality fitness provision for Science Park businesses, residents and commuters.
The new facility is the result of a strategic partnership between Exeter Science Park and LED Community Leisure, bringing together the Park’s long-term vision for onsite gym facilities with LED’s extensive expertise in delivering accessible, community-focused fitness centres across the region.
Designed to meet the needs of a rapidly growing community, the new gym - which will be named The Engine - will be located on the ground floor of the Science Park’s Ada Lovelace Building. Its arrival marks a significant milestone in expanding amenities for both the Science Park and the surrounding area.
The Engine will feature a 55-station gym, fitted with InSpace Fitness’s premium range of equipment, spanning cardiovascular machines, pin-loaded and plate-loaded resistance kit, free weights and designated functional training zones. Users will also benefit from a dedicated functional area complete with a custom rig, sled track and HIIT equipment.
A spacious group exercise studio will offer Les Mills Virtual along with instructor-led classes, covering everything from circuits to yoga. The new facility, which will be soft launched on December 20, will also include:
Wet rooms for changing and showering
A state-of-the-art InBody machine for medical-grade body composition analysis and ongoing health tracking
Support from highly qualified staff offering exercise referral, health interventions and personal training
LED is a cooperative community benefit society which operates 22 facilities across Devon and Somerset - from leisure centres and swimming pools to private gyms, theatres and entertainment venues. The Engine will join LED’s growing family of boutique-style fitness spaces, including The Grove (Seaton), The Hangar (Axminster) and The Space (Dartington).
The collaboration with Exeter Science Park builds on LED’s reputation for embedding high-quality, welcoming facilities at the heart of local communities, supported by its award-winning Active Communities outreach team.
Sally Basker, CEO of Exeter Science Park, said: “It has always been part of our long-term vision at Exeter Science Park to establish a gym, which will contribute to a thriving, inclusive environment where science, innovation, health and wellbeing go hand in hand. We’re delighted to partner with LED on this project. Their community-focused ethos and high-quality delivery make them the ideal organisation to operate a fitness facility that will benefit both Science Park tenants and our neighbours across Exeter and East Devon.”
Olly Swayne, CEO of LED Community Leisure, said: “LED is delighted to partner with Exeter Science Park to open The Engine at the Ada Lovelace Building. This state-of-the-art health and fitness facility reflects our shared commitment to innovation, wellbeing, and community. At LED, our mission is simple: to help people feel better and get more out of life. The Engine will offer premium fitness equipment, expert staff, and a vibrant programme of group exercise classes and personal training. We look forward to welcoming the Science Park’s pioneering businesses and local people from Cranbrook, Pinhoe and surrounding communities to an inspiring space designed to support health, wellbeing, and productivity.”
The Engine is expected to attract a wide range of users - from Science Park employees seeking convenient pre- and post-work workouts, to local residents in Cranbrook, Pinhoe and surrounding areas, to commuters travelling along the M5 and A30 corridors.
Work is underway on final preparations, with a soft launch planned for December 20, with full opening from January 2, 2026.
