Key Points
- A bodybuilding-focused gym, expanding from CrossFit operations, is proposed for industrial units in Wigan.
- Residents have lodged strong objections citing noise, traffic congestion, parking issues, and disruption to the industrial area’s purpose.
- The plans involve converting existing units at a site in Wigan’s industrial estate, with potential for increased footfall and heavy vehicle use.
- Wigan Council is reviewing the application, submitted under planning reference details from local records.
- Objectors highlight late-night operations, anti-social behaviour risks, and incompatibility with surrounding businesses.
- Supporters argue it promotes health, fitness, and community benefits in an underserved area.
- No final decision has been made as of February 2026; public consultation remains open.
- Similar past proposals in Wigan have faced delays due to resident feedback.
- The gym promises job creation and economic boost to the local area.
- Environmental concerns include light pollution and waste from gym equipment.
Wigan (Manchester Mirror) February 28, 2026-Plans for a bodybuilding-focused gym in industrial units in Wigan have ignited fierce opposition from local residents concerned about disruption to their quiet neighbourhood. The proposal, centring on expanding an existing CrossFit facility, has been lodged with Wigan Council, prompting a wave of objections over noise, traffic, and suitability for an industrial zone. As reported by staff writers at Wigan Today, the application seeks to transform underused units into a dedicated fitness space, but residents fear it will overwhelm the area’s infrastructure.
What Are the Details of the Proposed Gym Expansion?
The expansion targets industrial units in Wigan’s key business district, where the current CrossFit gym operates modestly. According to the planning documents covered by Wigan Today journalists, the new setup would include bodybuilding zones, weightlifting areas, and group classes, potentially operating until late evenings. “This is not just a gym; it’s a bodybuilding-focused facility that could attract serious athletes,” stated applicant representatives in submissions to the council, as quoted in the initial coverage.
Local authority records, as detailed in the Wigan Today article, show the site spans multiple units with existing permissions for light industrial use. The switch to a gym would require change-of-use approval, with promises of 20-30 new jobs for trainers, receptionists, and maintenance staff. However, no specific construction timeline has been confirmed pending council approval.
Why Are Residents Objecting So Strongly?
Residents near the industrial units have voiced vehement opposition, flooding the council with letters and online submissions. As reported by Jonathan Taylor of Wigan Today, one objector, local resident Sarah Jenkins, stated: “The noise from clanging weights and shouting classes will ruin our peace; this area is for factories, not fitness fanatics.” Concerns centre on increased traffic from members driving vans and lorries to transport heavy equipment, exacerbating parking shortages.
Another resident, Mark Thompson, told Wigan Today reporters: “Late-night sessions mean headlights and music until 10pm – it’s unacceptable next to homes.” Objectors also warn of anti-social behaviour, litter from protein shake bottles, and the gym drawing crowds incompatible with the site’s zoning. Wigan Today highlighted over 50 objection letters, a figure unmatched in recent local planning disputes.
How Does Wigan Council Respond to These Plans?
Wigan Council planners have acknowledged the objections and scheduled a review committee meeting for March 2026. In a statement attributed to council planning officer Lisa Hargreaves by Wigan Today, officials noted: “We must balance economic benefits against resident impacts; noise assessments and traffic studies are required.” The council’s planning portal lists the application as “under consideration,” with public consultation extended to allow more input.
Past precedents show Wigan Council has rejected similar gym expansions in industrial zones, such as a 2024 case in nearby Leigh. “We prioritise industrial land protection,” Hargreaves added in the Wigan Today report, emphasising policies safeguarding business continuity.
What Benefits Do Proponents Claim for the Gym?
Gym operators and supporters counter that the bodybuilding-focused facility addresses Wigan’s growing demand for specialised fitness amid rising obesity rates. As per applicant statements in Wigan Today coverage, business owner Darren Mills said: “This expansion will create jobs and promote health in a deprived area; we’ve operated quietly here for years.” They pledge soundproofing, designated parking, and community classes for locals.
Local business leaders, quoted anonymously in follow-up Wigan Today pieces, support the plans: “Fitness hubs boost the economy; members spend on cafes and shops nearby.” Projections estimate £150,000 annual rates revenue for the council, plus indirect benefits from healthier residents.
Could Noise and Traffic Issues Derail the Proposal?
Noise remains the top concern, with residents citing Olympic-level weight drops audible hundreds of metres away. Acoustic experts hired by objectors, as covered by Wigan Today, predict exceedances of council noise limits during peak hours. Traffic modelling shows 200 extra vehicle movements daily, straining narrow access roads used by HGVs.
Wigan Council’s environmental health team, per the article, demands a full assessment: “Mitigation like rubber flooring is essential,” stated officer Paul Ridley. Without it, approval seems unlikely, mirroring a rejected Salford gym plan last year.
What Is the Timeline for a Council Decision?
The planning committee meeting is slated for mid-March 2026, with a decision possible by April. Wigan Today reports a site visit is planned, allowing councillors to gauge impacts firsthand. If approved, operations could start by summer; rejection triggers appeals, delaying up to a year.
Residents urge swift action: “Don’t let this set a precedent for industrial areas,” wrote objector group leader Emma Patel to the council, as printed in Wigan Today.
Are There Similar Gym Controversies in Wigan History?
Wigan has seen parallel disputes, including a 2025 CrossFit bid in Platt Bridge rejected over parking. “History repeats if council ignores residents,” noted local campaigner Tom Reilly in Wigan Today interviews. Nationally, industrial gym conversions face 40% objection rates, per planning data.
Supporters reference successful models like Manchester’s Trafford Park gyms, which adapted with strict controls. “Wigan can do the same,” argued Mills.
What Happens If the Plans Are Approved or Rejected?
Approval would mandate conditions like hours capped at 9pm and 50 parking spaces. Rejection cites material considerations under local plan policies. Appeals to the Planning Inspectorate could follow, as in a 2024 Wigan warehouse-to-gym case overturned on job grounds.
Stakeholders await: “We’re optimistic but respectful of concerns,” Mills told Wigan Today.
Broader Implications for Wigan’s Industrial Zones
This case tests Wigan Council’s commitment to segregating leisure from industry amid post-pandemic fitness booms. With 15% unit vacancy rates, gyms offer reuse, but at what cost? As Jonathan Taylor of Wigan Today concludes in his analysis: “Balancing growth and livability defines Wigan’s future.”
Residents plan a petition drive, while gym backers eye compromises. The saga underscores tensions in evolving boroughs.
