Laois business owner John Watchorne has applied for planning permission to turn the old Eason’s building in Portlaoise into a new three-storey gym.
This building is currently located in Lyster Square in between EuroGiant and Browne’s Jewellers.
John is the owner of Jeremiah Grant, Bar and Eatery which is adjacent to the premises on the opposite side on Main Street.
If approved, this would be the second gym on John’s portfolio as he is also behind Priority Fitness in Mountmellick.
The building on the corner of Bull Lane and Lyster Square was initially developed by the late John McNamee, owner of Laois Education Supplies.
It is best known as an Eason’s building but in more recent times, it was under different ownership and was changed to BookMark.
The building has been vacant since that BookMark relocated to Laois Shopping Centre about a year ago.
Plans include converting the ground floor into a café with gym changing rooms, toilet and shower facilities.
The 1st and 2nd floors are designated for gym use, to include internal changes and associated site works.
Access to the gym would be from the side lane to the left of the building as you look at it.
A decision on the planning is due by July 27.
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