Former Aberdeen Matalan shop could be taken over by JD Gyms under new plans

How the new gym could look if the plans are approved
-Credit: (Image: Ryden)


A former Matalan store could be transformed into a new gym under plans submitted to the city council.

Aberdeen's shoppers previously ventured to Constitution Street in search of bargains from the high street retailer before its closure when it relocated to Kittybrewster Retail Park.

The site has fallen into a derelict state since, with the car park covered in overgrowth and the building left empty.

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Previous plans for hundreds of new student flats in place of the old Matalan shop fell through, but now developers are looking to turn the space into a brand new gym.

JD Gyms currently has multiple sites in the central belt including Edinburgh and Glasgow, but the closest gym available to those in the north-east is in Dundee.

Subject to planning approval, it would be their first in the Granite City and their most northern site in the UK.

The building has fallen into disrepair since Matalan exited the Constitution Street site
The building has fallen into disrepair since Matalan exited the Constitution Street site -Credit:Google

As well as the new gym, proposals include the addition of extra parking spaces, including EV spaces, bike stands to the front of the building, and a retail unit that will be up for grabs.

Planning documents add: "The gym will be occupied and operated by JD Gyms who are considered to be one of the most recognised fitness centre brands on the market.

"They are a low cost, no contract concept with comprising high specification gym equipment, free weights, fitness classes and access to Personal Trainers, in addition to male and female changing rooms, lockers and showers."

It is expected the gym would create eight full-time and 12 part-time jobs, as well as up to 15 roles for freelance instructors and personal trainers.

JD Gyms operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week at their sites across the UK, with Ryden stating the brand is looking to expand across the UK while operating at hours that will match or better their nearby competitors.

They also hope that the increased footfall in the area could bring a much needed boost for the nearby beachfront, which is currently undergoing its biggest upgrade for decades.

You can view more on the plans here.