Fitness company plans to expand by creating new “super gym” next to airfield in Flintshire

A FITNESS company has revealed plans to expand by creating a new “super gym” next to an airfield in Flintshire.
An application has been submitted to convert an 827 square metre industrial unit at Aviation Park in Saltney Ferry, which is home to Hawarden Airfield, as well as a flying school and a diner.
The proposals have been put forward by Oliver Wayman and Samuel Moir, who took over the running of Gymnasium One in Saltney around three years ago.
The two men said they had successfully turned the fortunes of the “failing” business around, but now needed to move to a larger premises.
If approved, the new facility would be known as Modified Fitness and open 24 hours a day to appeal to workers at the nearby Airbus factory, as well as elite athletes.
In documents put forward to Flintshire Council, representatives said: “Since their engagement in the Gymnasium One business, careful investment and improved management has resulted in a membership of approximately 450 members turning a lossmaking business in to a profitable one.
“This success however meant that the premises at the Chesterbank site became too small and if further expansion was to be considered then a move to larger premises would be necessary.
“Following a period of thought and discussion it was agreed by the partners that the new business and partnership should be rebranded.
“The character of this gymnasium is unlike many of the large fitness chains, it is classified as a super-gym as it will also offer championship level training facilities for elite athletes and lifters representing clubs and the nation in international competition arenas.
“It is intended that this project should make a positive contribution to Flintshire by; responding to government concerns relating to health and well-being; providing employment; enriching well-being opportunities on the park for all employees; establishing Flintshire as a centre for training elite athletes, powerlifters and weightlifters.”
The company said the plans would bring a vacant unit back into use with all work to convert the building being carried out inside the existing footprint.
Access to the park is provided via a controlled barrier with 63 parking spaces on site.
It added there would be no adverse impact upon nearby properties and businesses if the scheme goes ahead.
Planners from Flintshire Council are aiming to decide on the proposals by mid-February with feedback currently being invited on the local authority’s website.

By Liam Randall – Local Democracy Reporter