Fitness Factory Gym To Be Demolished With Outline Housing Plan Approved

Plans to demolish a long-standing gym in Newport and replace it with eight new homes have been approved by the Isle of Wight Council.

The application, submitted by Mr and Mrs Steve Milton, will see the former Fitness Factory site on Portland Street redeveloped for housing.

The approved outline plans include two semi-detached two-bedroom homes and six two-bedroom terraced houses, along with a new access onto Portland Street and on-site parking.

Provision has also been made for cycle storage and refuse bin storage.

The former gym building closed permanently in April 2022 after 37 years in operation, with the premises considered no longer fit for purpose.

Planning documents described the existing structure as “dilapidated” and “deteriorating”, arguing that its removal would improve the appearance of neighbouring properties.

Council officers said the proposed homes would complement the surrounding area and enhance the existing street scene.

A decision report stated the development would not have a harmful impact on neighbouring residents in terms of outlook, light or privacy, noting the “tight knit and more compact character” of Portland Street.

However, the plans did attract objections from local residents.

Concerns raised included increased traffic, pressure on parking and the size of the proposed homes.

One resident, Katie Davis, told planners the development could worsen congestion on what she described as an already “impassable” road when vehicles approach from both directions.

She also questioned whether eight homes and sufficient parking could realistically fit on the site.

The planning approval includes 15 conditions covering areas such as drainage, environmental protection, highway safety, parking provision and local amenity.