New Oldbury trampoline arena to create 20 jobs
A new trampoline arena will be opening in Oldbury, creating around 20 jobs, under new plans.
Flip Out, which runs several sites across the country, wants to convert a disused warehouse on Churchbridge into an activity and play centre.
The large indoor arena would be used for children's parties but also as a fitness centre for adults and teenagers.
The application has been lodged with Sandwell Council, with members of the planning committee expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.
Flip Out is seeking to take over a warehouse unit on the Churchbridge Industrial Estate and is expected to advertise for receptionists, bar and cafe staff, floor managers and party hosts should it be given the nod by councillors.
Existing centres feature giant trampolining areas with dozens of linked trampolines and safety mats as well as foam pits, half pipes and wall running areas. A reception and cafe would also be part of the Oldbury arena, while seating for parents would also run around the trampolining area.
Flip Out said it would only need to make slight changes to the building to convert it into the activity arena. The growing firm recently opened a centre in Stone and has centres in Stoke and Bristol. Others are also planned for London and Manchester.
Oldbury Councillor Mahboob Hussain believes people would come from across the West Midlands to use the activity centre.
He said: "There is not much to do for young people in Oldbury and it is in the right location near the motorway so I think a lot of people will come from all over Sandwell and the West Midlands.
"We have been losing so many jobs in Oldbury recently so any jobs are welcome. It's really nice to see any jobs in Oldbury. That warehouse has been empty for the last 12 months so I'm really pleased that it looks like it will be brought back into use."
A design and access statement submitted with the plans by Flip Out says: "Flip Out Arenas are recreational facilities providing a large indoor arena with a series of linked trampolines and safety mats that combine play with health and fitness. The facilities are used for children's parties and activity groups as well as adult agility courses."
