Gym plans scuppered as permission refused

Proposals for a 24-hour gym at a former car showroom in Gascoyne Way have been dealt a blow after planning officers refused planning permission for the scheme.

Earlier plans to convert the buildings to offices were granted in 2020, but attempts at marketing the site met with little interest, other than from PureGym. A subsequent planning applicaton was submitted last year to allow the builings to be used for a 24 hour gym. The building is currently occupied by a 'popup' furniture store.

In submitting their proposals, consultants for the applicant claimed that the gym will bring longstanding vacant premises back into use, provide new employment opportunities for up to 15 people and create real social benefits in terms of providing affordable and accessible fitness facilities.

However, local residents were unhappy with the plans, with 64 objections submitted to East Herts District Council. 

The West Street Association raised concerns about parking, saying: "WSA fear that many customers will park in our already overcrowded historic street close to the facility for their own convenience. Staff would also want to park and there would be additional pressures while classes take place."

The Association added: "Noise and light pollution is a serious concern to the amenity of adjoining residents, especially as the application is for a 24 hour facility."

Concerns about parking and traffic were echoed by Hertford Town Council.

In refusing planning permission, the council officer's report said: "it has not been demonstrated that the proposal would not have an unacceptable impact upon neighbouring amenity with regards to noise

"the proposal provides insufficient parking, disabled parking and cycle storage contrary

"insufficient information has been provided to show compliance with biodiversity, climate change and water reduction policies contrary to polices".