The Spring Garden property, which was formerly a Christian Association and Literary Institute and social club for Geest employees, was most recently owned by The Fitness Company.
“Everyone I’ve spoken to about the building was shocked that it wasn’t already listed.
“The Fitness Company building is not listed but should be and the building and surrounded area should be protected as it is in a conservation area.”
An archaeological survey carried out as part of the planning permission also found evidence of a historic waterway.
The building was built in 1857 and once contained a tower. When built it contained a lecture hall, reading and class rooms with a library of 1,600 volumes.
“The Association eventually closed through lack of use and was sold to Geest who used it as a social club for their worker.
