CONTROVERSIAL plans to convert a popular Sandhurst gym into thirteen flats have been given the go-ahead by Bracknell Forest Council (BFC).

Planning bosses said yes to a proposal to redevelop Foundation Fitness Club after considering opposition from almost 50 residents, who were worried about the loss of gym services – which are said to be used by 1,000 members – ‘overbearing’ design of the homes, and overdevelopment in the area.

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However, the club have said they are not closing down and plan to remain open to the public. 

Before BFC’s decision, regular gym-goer Zoe, from Owlsmoor, told the News the conversion of the gym would be a “real loss” to the area.

She continued: “It is really is a community gym and when you go you know everyone down there.

“Me and my family have been going to that gym for years.

“I think it would be a real loss to see it go.

“You feel really confident when you go there and we don’t really have any other gyms around here.”

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Max Baker, head of planning at Bracknell Forest Council, said: "The application approved at the July Planning Committee was an outline application.

"This means a reserved matters application still needs to be submitted within three years from the date of the outline consent, before the approval can be implemented.

"The grant of planning permission does not oblige the applicant to carry out the permitted development."