Plans for new health and fitness studio in former South Shields GP surgery

South Tyneside Council registered a planning application for 17 Westoe Road in South Shields, near South Shields Town Hall.

The change of use bid aims to transform the former surgery into offices and health facilities.

According to planning documents, the building stopped operating as a doctors surgery in 2016.

New proposals aim to provide an extra parking space in the rear yard and could create five new jobs – including three full-time and two part-time roles.

Information provided by the applicant stresses that the fitness and wellbeing studios are not open to the public as a conventional gym.

Activities will mainly involve small groups led by a personal trainer on a one-to-one/two basis .

Private clients would also attend to a “scheduled appointment system.”

A planning statement goes on to say: “The fitness studio will be fitted with sound-absorbent flooring but nevertheless will not involve multi-occupancy/ noisy equipment / loud music.”

Proposed opening times for the health studios include 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday and occasionally between 8am-4pm on Saturdays.

Comments on the plans can be made by writing to the council before April 24.

For more information, visit South Tyneside Council’s planning portal and search reference: ST/0208/20/FUL

It is not yet known when the venture would open if approved. Gyms are currently closed as part of restrictions to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Councillors will examine recommendations by planning officers before making a decision on the proposals.