Hove Gym Set for Demolition Amid Safety Concerns and Squatter Issues
A former gym in Hove faces demolition due to safety fears and unauthorized entry by squatters
Hove, UK, Gym, Demolition, Safety, Squatters
Hove: The old gym building in Hove is in the spotlight as the owner wants to tear it down. They’re worried it might not be safe anymore.
There have been reports of squatters hanging around, which only adds to the concern about the building’s condition. Neighbors thought demolition had already started when the owner submitted a request to the city council last week.
This gym used to be the Hove Fitness and Squash Club, located right next to the greyhound stadium on Nevill Road. It’s a bit of a local landmark.
Conservative councillor Ivan Lyons, who looks after the Westdene and Hove Park areas, got involved because he noticed bulldozers showing up unexpectedly. He said it was a surprise to both him and the council.
The gym closed its doors in October 2023 after they discovered some unsafe building materials called RAAC. This type of concrete was popular back in the 50s and 60s but has been linked to safety issues since a roof collapse at a school in 2018.
Now, the gym has moved to a new spot on St Heliers Avenue. The owner of the dog track, Entain, has applied to demolish three buildings on the site, saying they’ve already started removing asbestos.
Entain mentioned that they’re waiting for the council’s green light before starting the actual demolition. They pointed out that the building poses a health risk, as the roof is being temporarily supported to avoid collapse, and there have been several incidents of unauthorized access.
If you want to check out the application or leave a comment, you can find it on the council’s planning portal by searching for BH2025/00049.