Influencer’s £30k Pilates studio sparks neighbour dispute in Norfolk

Influencer’s Garden Gym Sparks Controversy in Norfolk

An influencer has built a garden gym in a residential area in Norfolk without planning permission, causing frustration among neighbors.

A dispute arose between Megan Smith, 24, and Kings Lynn residents after she established a £30,000 Pilates studio on her grandparents’ £825,000 property.

The gym, named Luco Wellness after Megan’s dachshund Lulu and cockapoo Coco, opened on November 3 and attracted nearly 50 visitors in its first week.

Local Concerns About Noise and Traffic

Residents have expressed concerns about noise from the studio and increased traffic disrupting church services and Remembrance parades.

Megan sold her belongings, including her car, to fund the Pilates equipment and create her business, which also features a café selling Matcha drinks and Acai bowls.

Class prices start at £23 for a single session, while private sessions cost £40.

Business Activities and Planning Application

The gym is not limited to Pilates; it has hosted hen parties and corporate events, angering locals. Some believe Megan undersold her business in her planning application, which will be reviewed on January 12 after she sought retrospective permission.

She submitted a proposal in September for a change of use for the building, hoping for approval soon.

The application has drawn numerous complaints regarding noise, congestion, and safety risks, as well as concerns about mental health impacts.

Defending the Business

Megan described the criticism as ‘bizarre,’ stating that some neighbors have been monitoring her social media.

She explained that she began building the studio before receiving council permission because she wanted to start earning money.

Megan stated, ‘I had put everything into this, months and months of planning.’

Local Opinions on the Gym

Some residents worry that the gym will disrupt the quiet neighborhood. Betty Engledow, 79, said, ‘I’ve never heard of such a thing.’

Another anonymous resident expressed concerns about parking and noise, stating, ‘It’s not as if there’s a paucity of Pilates classes around here.’

However, Megan claimed most of her clients are locals who enjoy the studio.

Business Operations and Planning Issues

Megan operates the gym four days a week, offering two-hour classes, including Sundays from 7 am. She previously advertised 6 am sessions but received few bookings.

Each class accommodates five people. She has requested to run two classes from 8 am and 7 pm four days a week and to close on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Facilities and Community Concerns

Promotional videos featured a sauna, pool, and ice bath, but Megan clarified these are for residential use only. Residents raised concerns about these amenities.

One resident remarked, ‘On social media, it looks like a wellness thing, which to me is a spa resort.’

Megan stated she dropped plans for the sauna and pool due to complaints.

Community Reactions

Borough Councillor Richard Coates noted potential conflicts with Remembrance Sunday services if the gym operates on Sundays.

Megan’s grandparents, Bernie, 71, and Georgina, 69, defended the business, with Bernie calling complaints ‘nonsense.’

Several locals have hired a planning firm to oppose Megan’s application, citing noise and disturbance concerns.

Support for the Studio

Not all residents oppose the studio. Neighbor Vince Williamson, 62, said, ‘I’m fine with it. Maybe my wife will go to it.’

Mrs. Engledow mentioned her husband might benefit from the classes.

Planning consultants for Megan stated that loud music would not be played and that the property can accommodate up to 12 vehicles.

Planning Officer’s Report

A planning officer’s report stated, ‘The proposed change of use represents a modest, well-managed form of development.’

The report noted that the development offers health and social benefits and aligns with planning policies.

A decision on the planning application will be made by West Norfolk Council on January 12.