New CrossFit gym set to open in Hartlepool creating seven new jobs after plans approved

Proposals were submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department last year 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 will create four full-time and three part-time jobs.

A report from senior council planning officer Laura Alderson has confirmed the proposals have been approved, noting they will be ‘beneficial to the viability of the area’.

She said: “Following a sequential test and impact assessment of the proposed development it has been concluded there are no other sequentially preferable sites available.

“It is further considered the proposed use would not be detrimental to the neighbouring occupiers and would help bring a long-term vacancy to an end, which would be beneficial to the viability of the area rather than prejudicing future development.

“On this basis the principle of development is deemed to be within policy requirements and therefore acceptable.”

The site will also include changing facilities, a spectator area, offices and storage space within the development.

A planning statement from England Lyle Good Planning states 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.

The applicant has also revised the scheme to include a covered area with stands to accommodate eight bikes after talks with council officers.

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

In October 2020, plans were also 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.

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