Basildon Borough Council is inviting groups to open a new boxing or martial arts gym in the town centre of Basildon, Essex. The project aims to turn empty commercial spaces at North Gunnels into health and fitness hubs to help bring more visitors back to the local high street.
The council is offering units 1 and 2 at North Gunnels for the new sports facility, which cover roughly 7,500 and 8,500 square feet. These spaces are being made available to encourage residents to take up active sports and improve their general wellbeing.
According to Basildon Borough Council, the window to apply for the space is very short, running from Monday 16 March 2026 until Monday 23 March 2026. The successful group will get a two-year lease at a very low token rent, though there is no option to stay in the building once that time ends.
There is no grant funding available for the project, so the gym operator must pay for all their own equipment, staff, and running costs. Those who apply must show they have the right experience in running a gym and have strong plans in place to keep everyone safe.
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