Retail store plan for former gym

PLANS have been submitted to change the former Total Fitness gym at Warrington into a retail store.
The scheme – which is considered to represent a departure from the borough’s development plan – has been submitted by Foden Estates Ltd.
When the gym closed in September, Total Fitness claimed the closure arose from their landlord selling the building.
Members were offered membership at other nearby branches.
Now Foden Estates are seeking a change of use of the building in Winwick Road, Warrington.
They indicate the store would sell electrical goods and appliances, stationery and office supplies, DIY products, houseware, camping and leisure goods, motor and cycle good, furniture, carpets, bedding, soft furnishings, pets and related accessories, including pet food.
Planning officers say the proposal is in conflict with the borough’s development plan.
But they say it is important to consider whether retail uses in the out-of-centre location pose a threat to the vitality and viability of the town centre.
The need to support economic growth and job creation is a material consideration, as is the fact that the applicant’s operational model cannot currently be accommodated in the town centre.
Officers say there is scope to resist the application but are recommending the scheme be approved because of the potential for job creation and to prevent a long term vacancy occurring near a main road corridor into the town.
It is expected the scheme would create 120 jobs.