A new gym is set to replace a popular family-run party shop. Peterborough City Council’s planning department last week determined that Shadow Strength Gym’s application to take over Units 7 And 8 at the Saville Road Industrial Estate was lawful.

In making their decision, planning chiefs concluded the premises’ new function would be “Commercial, Business and Service” – known as ‘Class E’ – like the previous party shop.

This means that planning permission is not needed. As such, Shadow Strength Gym can remodel the existing premises to suit its needs.

The units were once home to The Party Place, a popular retail party shop that was run by Paul and Trish Shepherd, along with their daughter Jo, for 34 years.

The Shepherds decided to close the shop in October last year, citing rising costs, decreasing footfall, and the rise of online shopping as key factors.

First opened in 2024, Shadow Strength Gym is a well-established local gym that already has a 2,200 sq/ft unit on the Saville Road Industrial Estate.

This new acquisition – which is two units of 4,500 sq/ft – will see it more than double its footprint on the estate.

Celebrating the upcoming move on its Facebook page, the 24-hour gym said it was hoping to complete the move by early summer: “We’re aiming to be fully moved into the new unit within the next two months.

“There’s still a lot of work to do – from setup to final touches – but trust us when we say it’s going to be worth it.”