It is supposed to promote wellbeing and tranquillity. But locals are divided over plans for a Pilates studio in a leafy village.
West Norfolk councillors have been recommended to approve a retrospective application to operate the business in an outbuilding in the garden of a home at North Wootton, on the outskirts of King’s Lynn.
More than 20 neighbours have objected on grounds including fears the business would bring congestion, illegal parking, and safety risks for pedestrians around the site on Manor Road.
Concerns have also been raised over noise and disturbance from people, music and cars, along with fears classes could begin as early as 6am.
But some 20 letters of support have also been received by the council, including one saying: “New businesses that focus on health and wellbeing should be supported.”
A planning statement said: “Pilates classes will be carried out inside the building in a calm and tranquil environment allowing each visitor focus on their mental health and wellbeing.
“The outbuilding has been built to a good standard ensuring that there will be no audible noise relating to the Pilates classes outside of the building.”
Some 25 classes would be held a week, attended by five people, which a letter on behalf of nearby neighbours said would “detract from the quiet enjoyment of their properties”.
But a planning officer’s report said: “The proposed change of use represents a modest, well-managed form of development that utilises an existing building, generates minimal traffic, and gives rise to no unacceptable noise or amenity impacts.
“The development delivers meaningful health, wellbeing, and social benefits and is fully consistent with national, local, and neighbourhood planning policy.”
West Norfolk Council’s planning committee will decide the application when it meets on Monday, January 12.
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