Boxing gym founder celebrates 'huge feat' as dream becomes reality

Nasir Akram, the driving force behind Round4RoundUK CIC, has thanked the children, parents and supporters who stood by the project after Bolton Council finally granted planning permission.

He said: "I would like to personally thank all our well wishers, supporters, sponsors and most importantly children and parents who stood with us to achieve this huge feat."

The announcement marks a major breakthrough for the ambitious project, which has already seen former industrial units transformed into a boxing and fitness facility.

Months of work have gone into bringing the gym to life, with punching bags, training mats, a reception area and other equipment already installed while the team waited for the council's decision.

Now, with permission secured from Bolton Council, the finishing touches can be completed ahead of its long-awaited opening.

The facility, based at Units 4 and 5, Causeway Park, Express Trading Estate, off Stone Hill Road, aims to offer much more than just a place to train.

The community interest company hopes to create opportunities for children, young people and adults to improve their fitness, develop confidence and build friendships through sport.

Plans include running training sessions six days a week, with the gym designed to encourage positive engagement and support physical and mental wellbeing.

Announcing the breakthrough, Round4RoundUK CIC said: "We are thrilled to announce that planning permission has officially been granted for our new indoor sports, recreation and fitness facility."

The organisation described the approval as a turning point in its efforts to establish a lasting community space in Farnworth.

It added: "This is a major milestone for Round4RoundUK CIC and our mission to create more opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, build confidence, develop skills, and strengthen community connections."

The development has involved converting former industrial storage units into a purpose-built indoor sports, recreation and fitness facility.

While much of the groundwork has already been completed, further improvements are planned before the gym opens to the public.

The organisation said: "We would like to thank everyone who has supported us on this journey so far.

"We are excited to begin the next chapter and look forward to sharing updates as the project progresses."

"Together, we're creating a healthier, stronger, and more connected community."