Sheffield trampoline park leaps into reality

Proposals were submitted to the city council last year for a ‘trampoline leisure park’ in two warehouse units of the M1 Distribution Centre, close to Meadowhall - and now the venture has been approved.

The applicant, Jump Inc, wants to provide 90 trampolines, which will be open for play sessions, trampoline and dodgeball, and fitness classes.

The company recently opened a similar, 30,000 sq ft centre at Parkgate in Rotherham, creating 45 jobs.

A report to the council prepared by the scheme’s architect AA Design forecast 8,000 visitors per month.

A café and space for 60 spectators to watch the activities is also planned.

Approving the facility, planning officers said: “The proposed change of use is in accordance with relevant policy and will not be harmful to the dominance of preffered uses in the Business and Industry Area. The scheme will provide adequate parking provision and will not have a harmful impact on the local highway network.”

Little physical change is proposed to the warehouses - new entrance doors are required, as is the rearrangement of two car parks in order to offer enough space for vehicles belonging to customers and staff.

Jump Inc, which was founded by Chris Hayes, who grew up in Handsworth.

The ‘open jump area’ will consist of a large area of padded, wall-to-wall interconnecting trampolines, according to the plans. Customers will be able to book in advance, as well as using the facilities on a walk-in basis.

Trampoline parks are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Enthusiasts say the pastime has health benefits and enhances skills such as strength, agility and balance.

An opening date has yet to be announced.