Plans approved for new Hartlepool gym and wellness centre
Plans have been approved for a new gym and fitness facility featuring ice baths and hot tubs at a town business park.
Proposals had been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to convert a vacant former tyre depot in Usworth Road.
The application from Grant Coull asked for permission for the premises to operate as a gym and indoor fitness facility.
The Usworth Business Park site will accommodate gym equipment and associated recovery facilities, including ice baths and hot tubs, with no changes to the external appearance of the premises.
A report from council planning officers has confirmed the application has now been approved.
They added: “The proposed change of use is on balance considered acceptable and appropriate to the location and would not have any adverse impact on the amenity of the area or neighbouring land users.”
A planning statement in support of the application outlined how the facility will operate “as a managed fitness environment and is expected to employ up to 10 members of staff”.
It continues: “The proposal represents a sustainable reuse of an existing building and does not require any additional built form or expansion of the site.
“The development will provide a service that supports the wider business park, particularly for employees working within the surrounding units.
“The proposal will generate employment, support local businesses, and contribute positively to the vitality and functionality of Usworth Business Park, without giving rise to unacceptable impacts.”
As part of the approval, the gym’s opening hours will be restricted to between 7am and 11.30pm daily while more than 25 car parking spaces will be on offer.