PLANS for a gym at Burnley’s new £2.5million sports village have been scrapped - because there would be too much competition from the private sector.

Originally the complex at the Prairie, off Windermere Avenue, given planning permission last year, was due to include a gym and multi-use studio.

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But borough leisure director Mick Cartledge has approached the planning department with revised blueprints for the ambitious scheme, replacing the exercise equipment and space with a function room.

Work has already been completed on a 3G pitch, fronting Colne Road, and a number of football teams are using the surface for training and competition.

And construction has started on the golf driving range at the Windermere Avenue side of the site, which was another central feature of the development, with a pro shop, teaching facilities and a development centre also pencilled in.

But in a planning statement Mr Cartledge said: “(This is) a client request (on the) revision of a business plan, due to several low-cost gyms opening in Burnley.

“Another gym would not be viable.”

The same main building, which links through to the driving range, would also include a kitchen, to support the function room and lounge, alongside a bar, reception and offices.

Previously alterations were made to the original schematics, when the boundary fence was raised, to protect any potential stray balls from reaching householders nearby.

Last year DW Sports opened a gym-only branch of its fitness centre chain, above the former JJB Sports premises at the corner of Hammerton Street and St James Street.