Hundreds of wrestling fans have thrown their weight behind controversial plans to turn a Bootle garage into a 'wrestling school'.
Fighting Spirit Wrestling (FSW) want to turn a unit on Berry Street into a training and sport facility - but Sefton Council are predicted to refuse the proposals at a planning meeting this evening (Wednesday).
This recommendation comes in spite of the local authority receiving comments of support from 227 people - most of whom are members of the existing FSW 'club' - as well as a petition (in support of the plans) signed by 28 Sefton residents, and endorsed by Cllr Friel.
Documents on the local authority's website say supporters 'praise the business owner's work ethic and professionalism' as well as FSW's 'inclusive model which welcomes persons of all ages and improves the health, wellbeing and confidence of its patrons'.
Those backing the plans say the wrestling school would deter young people from turning to crime and anti-social behaviour, and draw in visitors to shows which are a cheaper alternative than arena shows.
But planning officers say turning the garage into a sport facility would cause an overall 'loss of employment land' as it is situated in an area 'designated for employment'.
The site has been vacant for 'less than one year' and planners say the owner has only marketed it by 'word of mouth', meaning some potential interest from 'appropriate employment uses' may have been missed out on.
They also say the opening times being restricted to late evenings means the building will lie empty during typical business hours.
FSW currently operates from Sefton Lane in Maghull and provides both training opportunities and live events/shows.
Sefton's planning committee will discuss the proposals at a meeting at The Atkinson in Southport this evening.
