Allgofor newgym basedin Wishaw

Plans for a new gym in Wishaw town centre have been given the green light.

The proposals, submitted to North L a na rk s h i re C o u n c i l’s planning department, were given the go ahead for the new gym situated on Kirk Road, on the site of the former Four Ways indoor market.

Owned by New Age Fitness, the new gym will be open seven days a week.

The council planning report states: “The site is within a town centre location where there is a mix of established uses, including offices and commercial services.

“It is considered that the proposed change of use to a gymnasium will not undermine the vitality and viability of the town centre and will not have a significant impact upon the character of the area.

“No objections were received during t he neighbour notification process or during the advertisement of this application.

“The proposed development complies with the relevant policies of the North Lanarkshire Local Plan in terms of the proposed use, location and accessibility.

“The proposal will not adversely affect the amenity of the local area and will support the diversification, viability and vitality of Wishaw Town Centre.”

The opening hours for the gym would be 7am to 10pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 5pm on the weekend.

The supporting statement on the council’s planning website stated: “New Age Fitness has a reputation of bringing first class health and fitness facilities (with a fitout cost of approximately £500,000) to the local community for a budget price and at this time of low demand for bricks and mortar retail units this will bring much needed investment into the area with this empty building being recycled for the long term.

“The business is aimed primarily at the budget end i.e. no frills end of the market, which is growing in numbers.

“There will only be space for fitness classes, general cardio and weight training with associated changing facilities.”

“The gym will be looking to employ 14 full and parttime members of staff.”