New CrossFit gym planned for Hartlepool industrial unit, creating seven jobs

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to convert a former drain centre in Burn Road into a gym, containing specialist CrossFit equipment.

Submitted by Mr Matthew Richardson, plans state the site at unit 17-18 Atkinson Industrial Estate would create four full-time and three part-time jobs.

There would also be changing facilities, a spectator area, offices and storage space within the site.

A planning statement from England Lyle Good Planning states if approved, the proposals will benefit the area by bringing a vacant unit back into use and creating jobs.

It said: “The gymnasium will contain specialist CrossFit equipment which requires a building height of two storeys to accommodate the necessary climbing ‘rig’.

“This unit is ideal for the proposed use as it has two floors that can be used, as shown on the proposed floor plans.

“There are strong material benefits that would weigh in favour of the proposals including bringing a disused unit back into use with a facility that will benefit the local community.

“Moreover, it would not bring about any highway or amenity issues.”

The site benefits from existing parking to the front and rear of the unit in the former storage yard, with 20 spaces in total, and plans state this is ‘more than sufficient’ given the size of the unit.

Plans also noted there are no external alterations proposed as part of the application.

In October 2020, plans were approved for another new gym specialising in CrossFit at the Park View Industrial Estate in Hartlepool, at a vacant unit last used as a tyre-fitting facility.

Ashley McFee, who submitted those plans, told the council planning committee there was a demand for the site and it was ‘more important than ever that health and wellbeing is supported and encouraged’.

A decision is expected to be made on the latest proposals for the gym in Burn Road by the council planning department next month.

To view and comment on the planning application visit the Hartlepool Borough Council planning portal online and search reference number H/2020/0406.

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