Appeal over refusal of gym plans for Wrexham tyre depot thrown out

An appeal against the refusal of plans to turn a tyre depot in Wrexham into a gym has been thrown out.

An application was submitted in November 2020 to convert a unit on Wrexham Industrial Estate into a specialist fitness studio for personal training.

Permission was later refused by Wrexham Council amid concerns over a lack of parking spaces outside the property on Ash Road North and potential road safety issues.

Simon Morait, who is behind the proposals, launched an appeal in September last year in a bid to have the decision overturned.

However, it has now been upheld by a planning inspector appointed to oversee the case after witnessing the parking problems first-hand.

In her report, Nia Jones said: “During my visit the car park was almost full and subject to extensive double parking.

“There were vehicles parked indiscriminately outside the few designated parking bays available.

“There are no parking restrictions in the immediate area and approach roads are used for parking and waiting by heavy goods vehicles, both on the carriageway itself or partially on the verge.

“These practices impede the safe and efficient operation of the highway network in the vicinity of the appeal site.

“Any overspill parking from the proposed use would therefore also be likely to exacerbate such congestion with consequent risk to highway safety.”

An agent acting on Mr Morait’s behalf previously claimed that only 12 customers would be able to access the gym at any one time, along with two staff members.

In an appeal statement, they said there would be ample parking to accommodate the proposed visitor numbers.

But Ms Jones said the restrictions would be difficult for the council to monitor and enforce.

She added: “I conclude that the proposal would be harmful to highway safety interests, contrary to planning policy which amongst other things seeks to ensure safe and convenient pedestrian and vehicular access to and from development sites.

“For the reasons given, taking all matters raised into account, the appeal is dismissed.”

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter