Brixton Gym Moves to Temporary Location Amid Building Renovations

Brixton Street Gym is set to temporarily relocate to an industrial estate in Herne Hill following the unanimous approval of its plans. The Block WorkOut Foundation, the charitable organisation supporting the gym, sought temporary planning permission to utilise two units at the Mahatma Gandhi Industrial Estate, located on Milkwood Road. Lambeth Council’s Planning Committee granted this permission during a meeting held last week.

Currently situated on Somerleyton Road in Brixton, the gym is seeking an alternative venue while construction work is undertaken for a regeneration scheme in the area. Once the development on Somerleyton Road is completed, a new permanent space will be made available for the gym.

Community Impact and Support

The Brixton Street Gym, supported by the Block WorkOut Foundation, plays a crucial role in delivering free fitness, mentoring, and youth engagement programmes to individuals across Brixton and the wider Lambeth area. Founded over a decade ago by Terroll Lewis, the organisation has positively impacted thousands of children, young people, and their families.

Mr Lewis addressed the committee members, highlighting the challenges faced by many of the young people they support, including vulnerability to violence and exploitation. He emphasised, “Some are under the fringes of gangs, and many simply lack positive opportunities. We create a safe space where they can channel their energy into something positive, build confidence, improve their mental wellbeing and develop discipline and purpose.”

In the previous year, Brixton Street Gym hosted 48 free community sessions, engaging approximately 160 children and young people, and offering 35 fully-funded gym memberships. Additionally, more than 150 locals participated in an annual community day. Mr Lewis noted that all activities were provided “free of charge” with the assistance of dedicated volunteers.

A Stable Future for the Gym

Mr Lewis expressed optimism regarding the move to the Mahatma Gandhi Industrial Estate, stating, “This location will provide us with the stability we need to continue and expand our work, allowing us to reach even more young people and families, build stronger partnerships, and create additional opportunities for the community.” He asserted that the Block WorkOut Foundation is a valuable asset for Lambeth, emphasising that approving this application signifies an investment in prevention, healthier lifestyles, and brighter futures for local youth.

The gym will occupy two units on the estate, one of which is already vacant, while the other is currently used for storage by a manufacturing business. The organisation’s outreach centre will also be relocated to this temporary site, enabling reach and community engagement officers to continue offering structured programmes and activities for young people and the broader community, facilitated by Brixton Street Gym staff and volunteers.

Next Steps and Operational Plans

The temporary permission granted will last for two years, after which the units will revert to their previous use. However, the completion of the Somerleyton Road regeneration scheme is not anticipated until 2030. During the recent meeting, a proposal by Cllr Viktor Westerdahl was made to extend the temporary use of the site to three-and-a-half years, allowing the gym to remain for a longer period. Unfortunately, this motion did not receive sufficient support and was subsequently rejected.

The Planning Committee proceeded to approve the original motion in accordance with officers’ recommendations, resulting in unanimous planning permission for the relocation. Once operational at the new site, the gym plans to offer services from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays.

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