New CrossFit gym planned for Hartlepool - bid to create five jobs with fitness centre in former tyre fitting facility

Proposals submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department for unit 9a in Park View Road West state the new facility would be a ‘functional fitness centre’ offering gym equipment.

Submitted by Mr Ashley McFee, the plans state the site would be a CrossFit focused facility running ‘small, professional and well taught fitness classes’ led by qualified trainers.

The business would initially provide employment for up to five people, with one permanent member of staff on at all times.

The unit at Park View Industrial Estate is currently empty and was last used as a tyre fitting facility.

A planning statement submitted by the applicant said the proposals would provide a facility which would benefit the community and help improve the health and wellbeing of people in the area.

It said: “By providing a CrossFit focused facility and also our eventual aim to expand on this, we will be running small, professional and well taught fitness classes led by qualified trainers.

“Our aim is to bring this fitness programme to the area and help reach the community and local area. This will be done safely and will provide the local community with a fun and enjoyable fitness programme.

“The gym will provide its members with long life friendships, relationships and building a strong, social and friendly community.

“The aim is to provide a service that serves the community and integrates different people to help push their health and wellbeing to the forefront of their agenda.”

The plans also reference the Covid-19 pandemic and how ‘it is now well known that our health and fitness is key to fighting any disease and illness we face’.

Along with the gym equipment, the site would also feature a coffee/social area for members and changing rooms, toilets and shower facilities.

Proposed opening hours are Monday to Friday 6am until 8pm, Saturday 8am until 1pm and Sunday 9am until 1pm.

The application also notes the site is located close to residential and business areas, accessible by all modes of transport, offers easy access by walking, while significant parking is already located around the unit.

A decision is expected to be made on the proposals by the council planning department by the end of September.

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