Gym club plan put on hold

PLANNING chiefs have deferred a decision on proposals by Warrington Gymnastics Club to open a super new headquarters in four converted industrial units.
Officers had recommended the scheme be approved for a temporary period of 12 months, but members of the borough council’s planning committee decided to seek a compromise that would enable a permanent consent to be issued.
They pointed out that the club – which has already secured £50,000 Olympic legacy funding from Sport England – could face difficulties in securing further backing if they did not have a permanent home.
The scheme involves conversion of four empty units on the Wharf Industrial Estate.
There would be no external alterations. But inside, a large gymnasium would be provided, along with changing rooms, office and storage space, toilets and a café and waiting area on the ground floor and a dance studio and viewing gallery and toilets on the first floor.
The club – which currently operates from Evans House, off Orford Lane, would provide 25 part time jobs and would open seven days a week.
It has more than 300 members and a waiting list of more than 250 children.
At its busiest period on a Friday evening there would be up to 65 children and staff on the premises.
Officers were recommending a temporary approval because of concerns about parking.
They believed parking for for up 30 vehicles may not be enough, unless the car park was properly managed and classes were staggered.
The deferment will give officers and the club time to hold discussions and come up with an acceptable compromise
The club, which can trace its origins to the late 1890s, has produced many top gymnasts over the years and draws its membership from a wide area including Manchester, Liverpool and Runcorn.