Mill complex owner proves flexible with gymnastics club deal

Dean Clough, a 22-acre mill-complex in Halifax, has secured a deal to let an 8,146 sq ft space on a 15-year lease to a growing gymnastics club.

[jim-nas-tiks] is the latest new occupier to take space at Dean Clough, expanding its mixed-use proposition which already combines office space and retail/leisure amenities with diverse arts and cultural attractions.

Formerly known as Matt’s Gym Club which operated at Trinity Academy in Halifax, [jim-nas-tiks] was evolved following the pandemic lockdown by former Great Britain Gymnast and national number two, Matthew Brooks and his wife Kirsty.

With 560 existing members, the new space will allow further growth with the very latest Olympic standard equipment and expert tuition.

The concept of [jim-nas-tiks] is focused around providing non-competitive physical activity to allow young people to thrive and improve their self-esteem, happiness, and confidence.

The name itself relates to how children would spell by phonics and the brand positioning uses stick people to demonstrate activities.

The deal has been made possible thanks to the flexibility of the landlord, Dean Clough Limited, which has shared the £150,000 fit out costs with Matthew and Kirsty.

The listed building, which required planning consent for change of use had been unused for a number of years.

Major works include structural alterations, new access routes to car parking, external fascia cleaning and significant internal installations including a new split-level floor.

Matthew Brooks said: “We are so excited to be able to open a bigger and better [jim-nas-tiks] at Dean Clough.

“Never in our dreams could we have imagined being able to secure a space in such an established place within a vibrant community.

“We hope to be able to grow our membership by 30-50% over time and will offer the facility for private hire and children’s parties as well as a broad range of classes for all levels of ability.

“Our new space will also include a spectator’s area, café and engaging vintage display.”

Jeremy Hall, chairman and managing director at Dean Clough Ltd, added: “We are happy to share the news that [jim-nas-tiks] is joining the family here at Dean Clough.

“Whilst much of our space has been transformed to offer high quality workspace of various sizes and flexible terms, we are always mindful of providing a good balance of amenity for not just our occupiers, but also the wider Halifax community.

“This is the second deal in as many weeks at Dean Clough as the UK largest online florist Prestige Gifting, agreed a deal to expand its headquarters into a fantastic new 9,677 space here.

“We have also welcomed six small business occupiers in recent months with nearly 10,000 sq ft of space under offer.”