Plans Submitted for Regeneration of Former BBC Club Site into a Wellbeing and Small Business Hub

Plans have been submitted to Westmorland and Furness Council for the regeneration of a vacant site in Penrith once occupied by the BBC Club, The land is currently used as a car park with plans for a three-storey wellbeing and small business hub submitted by local developers Atkinson Building Contractors to the council this week.

The scheme, for the former BBC Club site on West Lane in Penrith proposes a mixed-use building with a fitness studio on the ground floor, a massage and wellness suite on the first floor, and four small business rooms on the second floor.

The site has received planning previously including permission for a three-storey Extra Care facility with 28 flats, approved by the former Eden District Council in 2014.

Since demolition of the former BBC club building, the site has been used as a temporary community benefit car park.

A design and access statement says the building would adopt a modern, restrained appearance using a steel frame and contemporary cladding,

This space is purposefully designed as a low-impact facility, focusing on activities such as stretching, mobility work, balance improvement, fitness classes, mat-based exercises, and instructor-led sessions.

The wellness suite would be operated on an appointment basis, with Five treatment rooms, relaxation lounge. Designed to create a tranquil and private setting. Access provided via internal staircase.

The upper-floor will provide small business office accommodation will host consultants or therapy practitioners.

The plans include some on-site parking provision, but it’s intended the location would encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport, with nearby on-street parking also available.

The applicant says the proposed “scheme delivers clear economic, social and community benefits, supports local

employment and wellbeing, and regenerates an underused site.”

The plans are now open for consultation until the 13th March 2026 with officers expected to decide on the application.

You can view the plans and submit your views and comments on the application at: Planning Application 2026/0202/FPA