Brixton Street Gym is set to temporarily relocate to an industrial estate in Herne Hill after Lambeth Council's Planning Committee unanimously approved the move on July 28. The community gym, currently based on Somerleyton Road, will occupy two units at the Mahatma Gandhi Industrial Estate on Milkwood Road while construction proceeds on the Somerleyton Road regeneration scheme.
Charity Behind the Gym Seeks Temporary Home
Block WorkOut Foundation, the charitable organisation that supports the gym, applied for temporary planning permission to use the units. The foundation offers free fitness, mentoring, and youth engagement across Brixton and wider Lambeth. Founded by Terroll Lewis over a decade ago, it has supported thousands of children, young people, and their families.
Mr Lewis informed committee members: "Many of the young people we support are facing real challenges, some are vulnerable to violence and exploitation. Some are under the fringes of gangs, and many simply lack positive opportunities. We create a safe space where they can channel their energy into something positive, build confidence, improve their mental wellbeing and develop discipline and purpose."
Proven Impact on Local Youth
Last year, Brixton Street Gym held 48 free community sessions, engaged with around 160 children and young people, and provided 35 fully-funded gym memberships. More than 150 locals attended an annual community day. Mr Lewis emphasised that every activity was delivered "free of charge" with volunteer support.
He added: "The Mahatma Gandhi [Industrial] Estate will give us the stability we need to continue and expand this work to reach even more young people and families, build stronger partnerships and create more opportunities for the community. We genuinely believe the Block WorkOut Foundation is a valuable community asset for Lambeth, approving this application means investing in prevention, healthier lives and brighter futures for local young people."
Details of the Temporary Relocation
The gym will use two units on the estate, one already vacant and the other used for storage by a manufacturing business. The organisation's outreach centre will also relocate to the temporary site, ensuring structured programmes and activities continue for young people and the wider community.
The temporary permission lasts for two years, after which the units will revert to their previous use. However, the Somerleyton Road regeneration scheme is not expected to be completed until 2030, after which the gym will have a new permanent space.
Council Debate and Decision
During the meeting, Cllr Viktor Westerdahl proposed extending the temporary use to three-and-a-half years, but the motion failed to gain enough votes. The committee then approved the original officer-recommended motion unanimously.
Once relocated, the gym plans to operate from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays.
