A LEISURE complex which is investing £4million in a bid to become one of the most exclusive spas in Europe has been shortlisted in the national gym awards.

Burnley-based leisure and fitness complex Crow Wood, is in the running to be health club of the year for the second time in a row.

Last year, Crow Wood beat off competition from more than 150 other clubs nationwide to win the coveted prize at the National Fitness Awards.

Work is currently underway on a £4m spa area, set to open early in 2013 which the club says will create an “indulgent and comprehensive day spa experience”.

The spa complex also includes a new 80-seater restaurant.

Crow Wood director Oliver Brown said: “We were delighted to win the health club of the year award last year and we’re very excited to be shortlisted again.

“We’ve taken the title seriously and we’ve raised the bar even higher this year.

“Our ambitious plans will see Crow Wood become one of the premier health and well-being centres in the country and The Woodland Spa redevelopment will see us offer one of the very best spa experiences in Europe.”

The private members complex is set among 100 acres of woodland in Burnley, employing 75 people.

It includes a gymnasium, spa, pool, equestrian centre and the Soccer Burnley complex.

The private members fitness centre was established in 2001 with an investment of £10million.

Last year’s awards saw 500 entrants competing in 10 different categories and the final six in each class were visited by an independent assessor.