Body blow for Bristol man as gym bid is refused

A bodybuilder's proposal for a new gym in Kingswood, which he said would provide 15 new jobs, has been refused.

South Gloucestershire Council narrowly voted against Tom Blackman's proposal to open the Ministry of Fitness at the Douglas Road industrial estate.

Councillors voted six to four against the application to change a building from a warehouse into a gym.

Mr Blackman, 29 of Westbury-on-Trym, had to fight just to get the plans considered by committee as they were originally due to be dealt with by officers.

Mr Blackman said he was disappointed with the result and told the Evening Post he intends to appeal to the planning inspectorate.

Officers had recommended refusal on the grounds that the site could still be used for employment purposes.

The committee decision said: "The proposal would result in the loss of a safeguarded employment site. Suitable provision for sports and leisure facilities has been made elsewhere in the local plan."

Mr Blackman has letters of support and a petition backing it with 51 signatures.

Kingswood Rugby Football Club also voiced its support, arguing that the gym would help younger members with training.

Mr Blackman said: "Unfortunately it went against me six to four, it was really close.

"When I went to the meeting I put forward my bits and bobs and it was all going really well.

"The councillors were saying we need employment.

"Then the officer said you can't change a warehouse to a gym and that the Kingswood area isn't in decline in terms of employment.

"There was a similar application at the same time for Yate that was approved.

"It is a little bit frustrating – we plan to lodge an appeal next week."

The Yate proposal, to convert an industrial unit in Armstrong Way into an acro- gym, had been recommended for approval by planners.

Kingswood High Street has suffered a number of shop closures in the last year, mostly due to the recession.

Chasers nightclub, Clarks at Thomas Ford and KC Clothing are among the recent casualties.