Fitness centre plan is in starting blocks

A health and fitness centre with a full-sized boxing ring may open in Staffordshire.

A planning application for a gym on Burntwood Business Park, in Cobbett Road, has been submitted by Raw Iron Gym Ltd.

The fitness centre would be built over two floors and include a boxing ring, separate women's gym with cardio equipment and weights as well as areas for fitness classes. A dance studio would also be built by the applicant, Raw Iron Gym Ltd, which already runs fitness centre Muscle Beach.

That gym has been open for almost 21 years in Chasetown High Street.

Owner Ian Edwards said today he was looking to expand the current gym by opening a new facility on the business park.

"Muscle Beach has been going now for almost 21 years and it's getting a bit dilapidated," he said.

"We want to expand the business and open up a better facility for our clients.

"We've always been known as a men's body building gym and we want to appeal to a wider audience. That's why we have plans to have a separate gym for women."

Mr Edwards said he hoped the plans would get the thumbs up and if they did Muscle Beach would subsequently close down.

"There would be a full-sized boxing ring for people who want to come along and have a bit of a practice," he said. "The unit we hope to move into is currently derelict.

"It was built about three years ago and no-one has moved in since then.

"We want to bring the building to life and create a facility for the whole community to enjoy.

"There would also be jobs available if the plans get the thumbs up."

Mr Edwards said the jobs on offer would include personal trainers and fitness instructors. A decision on the plans is due to be made by Lichfield District Council before December 24.