Bulldozers look set to muscle in on gym

‘Regrettable’loss but flats recommended

jobs, loss of a gym facility and loss of footfall into the city as reasons to retain the facility.

But in a report to councillors, officers say: “Clearly the proposal involves the loss of commercial premises and the letters of representation make it clear that the gym facility and staff have provided benefits to users of the facility and the wider community, and that the loss of the gym would have wider health implications for the local population.

“The loss of the facility is regrettable for those who use it but access to fitness and wellbeing facilities are still available in the area.

“Typically gyms tend to be small employers although the business can bring large numbers of users into the area. Therefore the use may generate a footfall within the city centre but this would not be considered to be at a level where the loss of the gym would directly lead to a downturn in trade in the wider area.

“The provision of the proposed flats, although not bringing in the same number of users, may see an increase in spending in the city centre through the use of facilities, shopping and through increased night-time use which is to be encouraged.”

The gym has around 1200 members and eight members of staff, although it is currently closed due to the COVID-19 restrictions.

Hundreds of people signed a petition calling on the council to reject the plan.

In February, the PA reported that members of a group for people with learning, sensory and physical disabilities were begging the council to save they gym.

However, in their report officers claim that refusing the plan would not necessarily see the gym continue on the site.

Councillors on a planning and development management committee will discuss the application on Wednesday.