Kristian's gym unveils plans for bigger base in Netherton
A gymnastics club, famous for producing Olympic medal-winning talent Kristian Thomas, has unveiled plans to move from its home into a bigger base.
Earls Gymnastics Club, which is the training base for Wednesfield star Kristian Thomas, hope to open bigger premises in Netherton. Management have struggled to balance the books at the club recently.
Five coaches have been laid off to afford the £100,000-a-year running costs.
But it is hoped the move from Earls High School to a large unit at Westminster Industrial Estate, in Cradley Road, will secure its future.
The sport's governing body British Gymnastics has helped finance the move alongside donations and other funding.
A planning application for the new gym has been submitted to Dudley Council to be considered in the coming weeks.
Club supporter and campaigner Councillor Ken Turner said: "It would have been nice for the club to stay in Halesowen but it is an opportunity that the club had to look at after it become available.
"We are pleased as it is most important that the club is able to prosper for its young members."
Club chairman John Caulwell said they have been forced to find a new home because of increasing membership.
There are currently 550 members and 11 employees. At peak times, the club estimates up to 50 gymnasts could be using the gym.
The club has been searching for a new home for four years and had considered four other locations.
