Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
‘Premium’ city centre gym plan rejected
PLANS to open a new “premium” gym in Dundee have been rejected.
Proposals were lodged in March to open a new facility in Blinshall Street, on land previously occupied by Glenvarigill car showroom.
In a design statement prepared by Perth’s R&G Greig Property group, it was promised the facility would offer Dundonians a “premium fitness centre in the heart of the city”.
A spokesperson for the R&G group told the council: “While there are many budget gyms in Dundee, there are very few premium gyms, with the only contender being David Lloyds which is in the far eastern part of the city.
“Many locals travel from as far as Ninewells to use the premium services. Our aim is to bring a premium fitness centre into the heart of the city.
“The site at Blinshall Street is an ideal location, with ample parking, bus routes and access to the city centre
“In conclusion, the gym proposal provides an excellent opportunity to utilise a large vacant unit in a sustainable location.”
The council has rejected the plans, however, citing differences between the gym proposals and the local development plan.
A council spokeswoman said: “In addition, the proposed use is not ancillary in nature and would not support the function of existing businesses. There are no material considerations that would justify laying aside the provision of the development plan to grant planning permission.
“The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the proposal for an out of centre Class 11 use would not prejudice the vitality and viability of Dundee’s city centre, district centres, and commercial centres.”