‘Not acceptable in a residential area’: Gym proposal turned down after noise complaints
Plans to convert a village community building into a gym have been refused following noise complaints from residents.
Wakefield Council rejected new proposals for the Band Room in Gawthorpe, after people living near to the site objected.
A planning officer’s report stated the council’s environmental health section had received a “large number of complaints” since the building began operating as a gym in 2025.
An application was submitted to the local authority in June last year for a change of use of the building.
Permission was also requested to install two metal shipping containers next to the facility.
A noise management plan accompanying the proposals said the business would operate between 6am and 7pm.
The document said signs would be displayed at the site “requesting that customers respect neighbours and leave the premises quietly.”
The plan also stated that no amplified music would be played outdoors, adding: “Indoor music will be kept at a respectful level only.”
Twelve people then objected to the plans, raising concerns relating to “noise and disturbance” caused by gym members and music.
One resident opposed to the scheme said: “This building was previously used four hours a week for a band practice room.
“The gym is currently open 91 hours a week, plus cleaning and maintenance.
“This is not acceptable in a residential area. This building is wholly surrounded by housing.
“Granting permission for this noisy business, in such close proximity to residential properties would set an undesirable precedent.”
No comments of support in favour of the new business were received by the council.
The scheme was rejected on the grounds that the applicant had provided “insufficient information” regarding noise and ventilation.
A decision notice said: “The local planning authority is therefore unable to undertake a full and thorough assessment of the potential impact upon the residential amenity of residents surrounding the site.”