Dewsbury warehouse earmarked for new sports facility
The idea would see the former industrial site off Bretton Park Way fitted with the likes of padel courts and aerobics studios and an area for table tennis.
Part of a Dewsbury warehouse has been earmarked for a new sports and leisure facility.
The site that is the subject of the plans awaiting a decision from Kirklees Council makes up part of a wider industrial complex sitting off Bretton Park Way. It currently comprises offices and a warehouse, but if this application gets the green light, its future usage will be very different.
Under the plans, the centre would boast: five double padel courts; one single padel court; changing rooms with showers and WCs, including disabled facilities; studio for exercise classes; light aerobic zone; café and viewing areas; therapy (sports) room and fitness consultation space; personal fitness training areas; sports games area including table tennis.
The premises has been on the market since February 2022 but received no interest. As a result, the applicant has decided to pursue this alternative use which he believes will be a “great asset” to Dewsbury. The proposal aims to create a “high-quality indoor sports hub that promotes health, fitness, and community engagement”.
A supporting document on behalf of the applicant reads: “The facility will provide the local community with access to emerging sports such as padel, alongside traditional fitness and social opportunities. It will encourage participation in physical activity, support wellbeing, and create employment opportunities.
“This proposal represents a positive transformation of an underused commercial building into a vibrant sports and leisure centre. The development is accessible, inclusive, and aligned with community health and wellbeing objectives. Planning approval is sought to enable the delivery of this valuable local facility.”
If approved, it is expected that no warehouse staff will be lost and that between 15 and 20 full time equivalent roles will be created in areas like coaching, hospitality and on reception. A target date for a decision to be made on the plans by Kirklees Council has been set for December 15.