Flackwell Boxing and Fitness proposed to build a replacement facility for its classes, along with padel courts and a car park off Whitepit Lane, Wooburn Green.
The proposed site was on the green belt in equestrian paddock land and a part of the wider garden of Kiln Cottage.
The proposal stated: “Flackwell Boxing and Fitness provide boxing and fitness to a rage of clientele including mixed adult classes, women only classes but primarily focus upon juniors and youth classes (9 – 16 years old).”
The club based at Aries House, Flackwell Heath, is required to vacate and find alternative premises.
The plans state: “The proposal comprises a new 594.60 sq.m. portal frame barn style building to provide internal sport and recreation facilities specifically to accommodate Flackwell Boxing and Fitness who require replacement facilities along with 6 no. x double and 2 no. x single/children’s padel courts along with new entrance, car park and internal pedestrian pathways.”
The proposal had received nine public comments supporting plans and one objection.
The substance of these comments is hidden by Bucks Council, one of the only local authorities in the country to restrict public access in this way.
In a report on the proposal, a council planning officer wrote: “A number of letters of support received noting support for the proposed use.
“Objection received as to the impact on highways and the Green Belt.”
A council consultee on the proposal, Environmental Health made a holding objection to the plans due to “insufficient information relating to noise from Padel Courts and the impact on the neighbouring residential property”.
The planning officer added: “The application is not considered acceptable with regards to the ecological implications.”
They said that the ‘very special circumstances’ required to outweigh potential “harm” and “inappropriateness” to the Green Belt had not been met.
The proposal was refused on April 10 2026.
This time last year, April 2025, staff spoke out about fears that the gym would close amid business rate increases.
Following the withdrawal of their exemption and a rise in business rates, staff suggested the gym may not be able to stay open.
This came after Mark Russell, who runs the gym, took to Facebook to say he was “absolutely fuming” about the situation.
The post received over 300 positive reactions on the social media platform.
Following this, Mark started a GoFundMe to support the gym, which has received £2,400 in donations.
He took to Facebook again to say he was “overwhelmed with all the love and support” shown to the club.