Plans to convert the Bridgwater Poundland store into a 24-hour gym have been approved by Somerset Council, despite objections from Bridgwater Town Council regarding the necessity and potential impact of the development.
Poundland has been operating at Bridgwater Retail Park on The Leggar since April 2024, taking over the site formerly occupied by Argos. After a restructuring deal confirmed by the High Court in October 2025, Poundland indicated no immediate plans to close this location, benefiting from a temporary rent reduction or waiver.
However, The Gym Group, which runs over 250 locations across the UK—including nearby gyms in Bath, Bristol, and Midsomer Norton—received permission to repurpose the premises into a 24-hour fitness center. This change could occur if the Poundland store closes within the next three years. The planned gym will feature separate male and female changing rooms, office space, an entrance lobby, and storage for equipment. The project is expected to create around 15 full-time jobs.
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Bridgwater Town Council, represented by Tim Mander, voiced strong concerns during the Somerset Council planning committee meeting. Mander pointed out that the applicant had not demonstrated a lack of demand for retail usage and noted Poundland’s intention to remain operational. He warned that converting the unit into a gym might compromise the retail park’s integrity.
Mander also highlighted that adequate gym facilities, such as PureGym and Trimwise, already operate within a five-minute walk, questioning the need for another fitness center. He expressed worries that a 24-hour gym could reignite past issues with antisocial behavior, especially dangerous and noisy driving in the car park at night—problems previously mitigated by locking the area overnight.
Councillors debated the hours of existing gyms and whether the new gym would compete for the same clientele. While Councillor Mike Murphy questioned competition concerns, Councillor Ben Ferguson emphasized that market dynamics should not influence planning decisions. Councillor Tony Grimes underscored the importance of adapting retail sites to evolving consumer preferences.
After approximately 30 minutes of deliberation, the committee unanimously approved the gym conversion, signaling a shift in Bridgwater’s retail and fitness landscape.