A 24-HOUR gym could prove a good fit on a Galashiels retail park as steps were revealed to convert a former shoe shop.

National shoe chain Clarks closed its outlet at Unit 3 on Gala Water Retail Park back in June, 2020, with the loss of nine jobs.

Now details have emerged of plans from Leeds-based PureGym Limited for a “no frills” gym at the premises.

An application has already been granted to the owners of the retail park for the change of use of the building from retail to leisure.

A further application has now been lodged by an independent consultancy firm, Salford-based Urban Agile, with details of the proposed operators of the gym and seeking permission for PureGym to move into the premises and carry out external alterations and to install an air conditioning plant at the Huddersfield Street site.

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In a submission with the application, Jonathan Wadcock, director with Urban Agile, said: “The application site is currently vacant and the proposed works are associated with the reoccupation and refurbishment of the unit by PureGym which will operate as a commercial gymnasium from the premises. The external works that are proposed will comprise the replacement of the main entrance doors to the front elevation with automatic bi-parting folding doors, insertion of a fire exit to the front door elevation, the installation of an air conditioning plant and the insertion of five new ventilation louvres to the rear elevation.

“The proposed works are relatively minor in nature and will not materially alter the appearance of the commercial unit which is of a simple functional design.”

PureGym is described as a chain of “no frills” health clubs across the UK and is Britain’s largest gym chain by membership, with over one million members. Most facilities are open 24 hours a day and offer cardio equipment, fixed and free weights and exercise classes, with more than 200 pieces of equipment in each gym. All PureGyms are monitored by real-time TV linked directly to security staff and emergency services.