Citygymowners dismayed after dream is dashed

PLANNING: Panel refuses permission for fitness business

Two young fitness fans have seen their dream of running a Dundee gym slip away after councillors refused permission to host workouts in a city industrial estate.

Despite recently granting permission for a different gym nearby, councillors voted two to one to uphold an earlier call withholding temporary planning permission for the crossfit gym SweatBox Dundee.

Owners Sheli McCoy and Sam McClusky face enforcement action if they continue to run their business in the Dunsinane Industrial Estate unit. The council’s local review body temporary chairwoman Margaret Richardson, who voted in favour, said: “Sorry folks”, as the pair appeared visibly shocked by the decision.

The SweatBox Dundee team had argued councillors should consider the high number of other, non-industrial businesses which had opened in the area, including a car dealership, Starbucks, Greggs and Domino’s Pizza.

Councillors judged the business still did not meet with enough policies in the local development plan. SNP councillor Stewart Hunter said: “These are purpose-built buildings for industrial. I think it is vital we keep the door open for that. Although we previously allowed a gym in that area I don’t think that means we should just agree on this one as well.”

Labour’s Ms Richardson said: “Given the number of other units not used for that purpose, I believe that has set a precedent for that area.”

Sheliand Sam were asked to comment but did not do so.