A PLANNING application for a change of use of a retail space in Milford Haven to a gym with a protein bar and retail area signals the end of The Original Factory Shop.

The application submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council on November 7 by Inner Tiger Fitness boasts areas for yoga, fitness classes, a protein bar and seating area, multiple gym fitness equipment and sunbeds.

The Original Factory Shop opened at the former Woolworths site on Charles Street in June 2010. As well as selling discounted brand-name clothing and footwear, furnishings, household electricals, cleaning products, pet supplies, party goods, toys, books and sweets, the shop has been at the forefront of charity fundraising and holds pop-up events for local craftspeople.

In February, the company announced its decision to close the store, saying, “We’d like to thank all our customers for their support and look forward to welcoming them at any of our other two stores, which are both located within 20 miles.”

In a supporting statement, Samantha Winn and husband Darren, both avid gym users, outlined their plans for the proposed facility and their intention to create a space for people to socialise outside of the “rapidly declining” pub/club scene.

“We’re making a major personal investment to create a warm, friendly family environment which is open 24/7.

“Our facility will be the first of its kind in Pembrokeshire, not just a gym, but a health, fitness and wellbeing ‘hub’ to meet all needs and get more people into living a healthy lifestyle.

“We would like to keep the building alive and lovingly improve it.”

The store has been on the market for months with “little or no interest”, and the change of use could help save a high street where retail is dying off, leaving buildings empty and derelict.