The Chronicle can reveal that a dispute between leaseholders is delaying plans to open a PureGym in the old Flora Sandes on Ambassador House.

The no frills gym chain was granted change of use to turn the vacant pub into a gym by the council and it was anticipated work would start almost immediately. However, with no signs of construction starting people took to social media asking when it would open but- no date was forthcmoning.

 The Chronicle has subsequently learned that  while the freeholder and sub leasee is happy with the arrangement the head leasee is objecting to the change of use.

PureGym which offers more affordable monthly fees with no contract is still confident that these ‘minor obstacles’ will be overcome.

A PureGym spokesperson said: “PureGym are committed to proceeding with this site and a suitable planning consent has been secured for the premises. We are advised that the leaseholder and freeholder are working closely to resolve some technical legal issues blocking the scheme at the moment. We are hopeful that this will happen in the not too distant future and look forward to providing residents of Thornton Heath with high quality and affordable fitness facilities soon.”

-The Thomas Farley public house has sat empty for more than two years following similar protracted negotiations with trendy pub chain Antic. Permission was given to retain the  social hall and pub and build flats at the back. The freehold was bought by Iconic Properties Ltd registered in  Isle of Man.

Property management company Jenkins and Law is now marketing the property at an annual rent of £50,000.