February 17, 2020 3.41 pm This story is over 49 months old

Boston’s historic Sessions House cells to become training gym

No changes will be made to the 180-year-old building
Boston's Grade II* Listed Sessions House. Photo: Google Streetview

The cells of 180-year-old court building in Boston are to be turned into a training gym under plans approved by Boston Borough Council.

Applicant, and former Boston Borough Councillor, Alistair Arundell has been given permission by the authority to turn four of the cells at the Grade II* Listed Sessions House, on Church Close, into a “training circuit”.

Documents submitted to the authority by John Merrett Architecture said no physical alterations would be required and any equipment would be free standing. The rest of the building would also not be accessible by the gym’s users.

Former Boston Borough councillor, businessman and applicant Alistair Arundell (right) with former council leader
Councillor Aaron Spencer (centre) and Boston and Skegness MP Matt Warman. Photo: Nathan Bryant

“All users are by appointment and the proprietor is a fully-qualified personal trainer/fitness coach,” said the documents, which said a maximum of 16 people would be using the gym.

The historic Sessions House was built in 1841-42 by Charles Kirk, who also created a near identical building in Spalding completed in 1843.

The Sleaford-based architect’s family firm has more than 30 listed buildings.

It continued to be used as a court house, including some updates and a small extension to the West side, until 2003 when the magistrates court closed.

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