Work underway on Stowmarket's first 24 hour gym
Mid Suffolk District Council says it's part of plans to boost the town centre
Last updated 14th May 2021
Work has begun on Stowmarket's first 24-hour gym as part of plans to boost the town centre.
The former Aldi unit in Gipping Way, which has stood empty for 18 months, was bought by Mid Suffolk District Council for £1.7 million in September 2018.
Planning permission was granted to PureGym late the following year for a 24-hour gym but was delayed due to coronavirus.
This week the transformation of the unit has started, which is expected to include facilities such as weight and exercise machines, free weights area and an activity area.
According to the planning permission, the new gym will create 13 full-time and two part-time jobs.
The building also includes a further vacant space still available to let and the council says it paves the way for improvements to the neighbouring Union Street West car park.
Councillor Peter Gould, Cabinet Member for Assets and Investment, said:
"This is great news for the town. At last, we can look forward to a new era for this unit, with a change of use from retail to leisure supporting our vision for bright and healthy futures for our residents, as well as bringing people in to the town centre."
Duncan Costin, Property Director of PureGym, added:
"PureGym is absolutely delighted to begin development on a new gym in Stowmarket, which will bring significant footfall and new jobs to the local area. The development of this new gym in Stowmarket solidifies PureGym’s commitment to UK expansion and providing affordable fitness to the nation.
"We know there is a huge appetite for gyms across the nation and as the biggest gym provider in the UK we look forward to welcoming members to our new site in Stowmarket later in the year and enabling them to pursue active and healthy lifestyles. We can’t wait to share more information about this site over the coming months."
Mid Suffolk District Council says the new gym is part of its wider vision for the town, working in partnership with businesses, stakeholders and cultural organisations to make it a "vibrant place" for all.
The council has also bought the former NatWest building in the Market Place, with the aim of enabling the expansion of the John Peel Centre, and revamped Regal Theatre, which is due to reopen later this month.
Stowmarket will also be home to a new Aldi in a purpose-built building on the other side of Gipping Way later this summer, creating 29 jobs in the area.
Councillor Gerard Brewster, Cabinet Member for Economy, said:
"The level of investment that we are now seeing in Stowmarket is testament to the council’s commitment to the town and its recovery from the impact of the Covid. We will continue to support our high streets and local businesses so that our region not only bounces back, but can look forward to a thriving future."