A FORMER gym in Eastleigh is being torn down amid an uncertain future for the site.

As previously reported, a demolition order was issued for the Samson’s Gym building on Chamberlayne Road last year.

Despite attempts from local groups to get the building listed, the site has no protection and work has now started on its demolition.

Planned to take around six weeks, this will see the entire council-owned building – also a former dairy – disappear.

Discussions are taking place about what will happen at the site.

Webinars had previously been set up to discuss plans for flats, but the Echo understands these have now been scrapped due to residents’ and councillors’ concerns about a lack of parking.

Chair of ELAC, Cllr Alex Bourne said councillor did not have a say on the demolition, but are now putting pressure on the authority to come up with a scheme that fits the area.

“Unfortunately it was in such a state of disrepair, it’s got asbestos and there were problems with previous owners of the gym that let it go to rack and ruin,” Cllr Bourne said.

“[The council is] very keen to work with the local residents’ action group and the community to put something in that will fit in there.”

Bob Everett from the Gym Improvement Group, a group that was set up in response to plans for the site to be knocked down, added that it’s “a shame” the building could not be listed and that there are “mixed feelings” about its demolition. It’s important that whatever replaces the gym fits in with its surroundings, and has adequate on-site parking.”

A council spokesperson said there is no need for roads to close during the work but part of a service road behind the gym will shut for about a week.