Conversion of retail unit to gym gets the go-ahead

The proposed conversion of a North East retail park unit, which has been vacant since the collapse of its former occupier, into a gym has been given the green light.St James’s Place UK, the owner of Hermiston Retail Park in Consett, has submitted plans to Durham County Council for the change of use of Unit 2D.The property is currently vacant having previously been occupied by shoe retailer Brantano, which entered administration in 2016 and had closed all its stores by June 2017.The application will support the re-letting of the 7,000 sq ft unit to an unnamed national multiple health and fitness club operator, which has agreed terms to lease the property to establish a low cost gym.The facility would operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and feature more than 170 pieces of equipment.The new use would support the creation of about 15 jobs, including two full-time management staff and part-time personal trainers and cleaners.The council has granted consent for the change of use, subject to conditions, under delegated powers.St James’s Place UK was supported in its application by Burnett Planning & Development.