Change of Use Planning Application submitted for the Innovation Centre
Potential opportunity for gym operator at the Energy Park, Bridge of Don
AM Sci Tech has announced the submission of a planning application to Aberdeen City Council, seeking a change of use for the Innovation Centre, within Aberdeen Energy Park in Bridge of Don, proposing a shift from Class 4 (Business Use) to Class 11 (Leisure Use).
This exciting proposal positions the building as an ideal home for a gym operator, meeting the growing demand for fitness and well-being facilities in the area.
Located at the heart of a thriving and rapidly developing community, the Innovation Centre on Exploration Drive is a standalone building, set over two floors and measuring approximately 14,000 sq ft (1,300 sq m). It is perfectly placed to serve a diverse and growing population, offering a bright welcoming foyer, with the calming environment of a beautiful atrium, with natural light from the large glass roof. Around the atrium, it offers a generous floorplan, high ceilings and ample parking facilities, making it well-suited to be converted into a modern gym or fitness studio.
Its convenient location ensures easy access for the growing number of residents, as well as professionals working within the business park. The site’s excellent transport links to Aberdeen city centre and proximity to key arterial roads (including the AWPR) add to its appeal, ensuring it is well-connected and accessible.
Over recent years, since the demolition of the former Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre, the surrounding area has seen a surge in new residential developments, with hundreds of new homes currently being built and many more in the planning pipeline from leading developers like Cala and Persimmon Homes. This future influx of residents has created a significant need for local amenities, particularly fitness and leisure facilities, making this proposed change of use both timely and strategic. Overall, almost 900 homes are currently being built or are in the planning system.
Gordon Pirie, Asset Manager at Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks said:
“We are very excited to submit this Change of Use Planning Application, which we believe reflects the evolving needs of the parks and the local community. With the area undergoing significant residential growth, there is an increasing demand for high-quality leisure facilities and we believe a gym operator would thrive in this prime location. This development will not only benefit residents but also add value to the wider business park.’”
Aberdeen Energy & Innovations Parks have already established itself as a key hub for commerce, with a mix of modern multi-let office and industrial units that support a diverse range of businesses. The introduction of a leisure facility such as a gym would further enhance the appeal of the park, offering an additional amenity to workers and creating a vibrant destination that promotes health and well-being.
This Change of Use Planning Application comes at an exciting time for the area. Alongside the ongoing and planned residential developments, significant investment in local infrastructure is paving the way for a more connected and prosperous community. The inclusion of a gym or fitness centre would complement this growth, delivering a vital service that aligns with the needs of the local population and encouraging active, healthy lifestyles.
Subject to planning approval, AM Sci Tech is keen to progress this transformation and is actively seeking expressions of interest from gym operators and leisure providers. For more information or to discuss potential opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact Gordon Pirie on 07525 240 453.
Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks.
