Plans have been submitted to transform a former gym in Penarth into a retail space, marking the third attempt to repurpose the facility. The application, presented to the Vale of Glamorgan Council, seeks to convert the gym located on The Moorwell, Windsor Road, into a shop primarily selling wine, beer, and spirits.
Previous applications to convert the gym have been rejected. The first proposal was submitted by Majestic Wines, followed by a second attempt from Project Three Developments Ltd.. Both requests faced denial due to concerns about the loss of the gym as a community resource. The council stated that neither application sufficiently demonstrated that the demand created by the gym’s closure would be adequately addressed in the area.
The rejections highlighted that the proposals did not preserve or enhance the gym’s contribution to the vitality and attractiveness of Penarth. They emphasized the importance of maintaining community facilities to promote sustainable travel patterns and support local residents.
The new application, submitted by David Oakhill, argues that the proposed retail space would not significantly impact Penarth’s existing retail environment. It contends that the shop would primarily sell alcohol, a restriction that could be enforced through specific conditions set by the council. According to the applicant, this limitation would mitigate potential negative effects on the surrounding community.
Additionally, the current proposal asserts that the retail operation would likely not generate greater disturbances for neighboring properties compared to the former gym’s operational hours. Oakhill’s submission addresses prior concerns regarding the gym’s classification as a community facility, arguing that the council relied too heavily on perceived community benefits and public objections instead of evaluating the gym’s actual usage.
The application notes that the former gym operated as a “commercial, membership-only facility,” lacking pay-as-you-go access or unrestricted public entry. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the gym’s nature as a business rather than a community center.
The council’s website has indicated that the target decision date for the new application is March 25, 2026. The outcome will determine the future of the site and its potential contribution to the local economy and community landscape in Penarth.
