A Forfar gym is to make a move after Angus Council planners approved plans for a relocation to larger premises.
Fitness Hub HQ set up in Carseview Road in 2019.
But it has outgrown its current home and is set to make the short move to a unit on the nearby Eco Park, close to Forfar Athletic’s Station Park.
It ruled out a town centre move because of a lack of suitable premises.
Empty buildings
The firm’s agent, Voigt Architects said: “We are aware of empty shop units and buildings within Forfar town centre.
“However none of the sites are available, suitable or viable which could successfully accommodate the proposal.
“The applicant began looking for premises mid-2019 for his original project.
“Many premises were considered including the old Angus College building on West High Street and another unit in Carseview Road.
“Neither of the premises provided on-site parking, which would be required for the proposal.
“Whilst users are encouraged to reach the proposal by a mixed method of transport there is likely to be a requirement for on-site car parking.
“The premises required for the proposal are very specific and not commonly found.
“The gym requires a large open plan layout to allow for a large volume of different activities to take place.
“Most gyms tend to have very little openings to create a reasonable level of privacy to users.
“We believe that it is not uncommon for this type of use to be located outside of the town centre and the creation of a gym occupying around 385m² is unlikely to attract significant numbers of people or undermine the vibrancy of the town centre.
“As such, the proposals raise no significant issues when considered against the town centre first approach,” said the architects.
Council go ahead
Planners agreed in the delegated approval.
They said: “The proposal would not result in any significant impact on the vibrancy, vitality and viability of the town centre.
“There are a number of industrial and commercial leisure uses between the application site and the nearest residential properties.
“The environmental health service has considered the nature of the proposed use and has recommended a planning condition to ensure noise is inaudible in adjacent noise sensitive premises.”
