Fresh concerns have been raised over the loss of a local gym and swimming pool, as plans to replace them with a new retail space are set for approval later this week.
The initial application was made in February 2021 for a change of use for the Sports Direct Gym on Easlea Road, Bury St Edmunds.
Having operated as a fitness centre since 2000, local residents have renewed their concerns over the proposals, which would see the loss of 62 fitness stations, the fitness studio and the swimming pool.
The recommendation by the planning policy team is that the "application would be considered acceptable" if contributions of £173,440 were made in respect of swimming pool reprovision in Bury St Edmunds.
However, it is estimated that this branch of Sports Direct Fitness has over 2,000 members and concerns have been raised as to where they will be able to swim until the £40m Bury St Edmunds leisure centre replacement is due to open to the public in 2025.
Resident Carol Smithson said: "Some use Sports Direct for rehabilitation, some for helping with their mental health, some due to loneliness and many to deal with their own vulnerabilities and insecurities.
"Its loss will have a massive impact on many people, all for the sake of another potential retail outlet."
Further members of the public have lodged official objections through the West Suffolk Council planning portal, saying the Moreton Hall area is "inundated with retail parks and shops" and adding that Sports Direct Fitness is the "only affordable gym in the area".
They reject the new plans for a retail park and mourn the loss of the gym "as the centre of the local community".
Concerns were raised as to the three small businesses currently operating from the premises, as well as the two self-employed fitness instructors, cleaners and swimming teachers working there.
Chief Executive of Our Bury St Edmunds Business Improvement District Mark Cordell also objected to the plans adding that "now is the not the time to be allowing further out of town retail" in the period of post-Covid recovery.
The plans are due to appear before the West Suffolk Council Development Control Committee on Wednesday, December 7.
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