Abandoned building will not be transformed into community hub

An abandoned community space will not be transformed into a multi-functional wellbeing centre, gym, food bank and soup kitchen.

The scheme to bring the former Stalybridge Lads Club has been rejected by Tameside council’s planning team because of the potential disturbance it would cause.

Developer Mr Dan McCord tabled plans to give the long-derelict building a new lease of life as a ‘vibrant indoor sport, recreation, and fitness facility’, according to planning papers.

The proposal included a fully equipped gym, indoor sports and activity spaces; dedicated areas for wellness classes and community programmes; changing and shower facilities; community food bank; and social and breakout spaces.

The Richmond Street site lies just next door to St Pauls CofE Primary School.

Planning papers read: “The proposed building will function as a Community Wellbeing Centre, designed to support physical health, mental wellbeing, and social engagement within the local area. At its core, the facility will house a gym and changing rooms, providing daily access to fitness equipment and structured exercise opportunities. 

“In addition, the building will serve as a flexible multi-use space, accommodating a variety of community-led activities such as focus groups, wellness workshops, and other group events aimed at promoting inclusivity and healthy lifestyles.”

The local authority’s planning team had concerns that the scheme would create an unacceptable level of noise and disturbance from the increased vehicular traffic and activity. Council officers believed that the developer has not shown how they plan to mitigate the  impact on local residents and the school next door.