A cheerleading club which has competed on the world stage hopes to turn an empty industrial unit in Yorkshire into a new training centre, opening up places for youngsters currently on waiting lists.

Trailblazer Allstars, which has around 230 athletes, wants to move into a unit on Bookers Way in Dinnington, near Rotherham, after outgrowing its existing school-based premises.

The club, founded in 2011, has represented the UK at international competitions, including events in Europe and America.

But its current training space is too small to accommodate everyone wanting to join, and restrictions on when it can use the school facilities have limited its growth.

placeholder image — Bookers Way in Dinnington

A planning application submitted to Rotherham Council seeks to change the use of the empty industrial unit into an indoor sports and recreation facility.

The building, which has been vacant since October 2024, would provide space for a full-sized cheerleading competition floor, tumbling equipment and training for stunts and routines.

Club owner Gina Williams said the organisation had spent years searching for suitable premises.

In a statement supporting the application, she said: “I am a local girl from Rotherham. I went to a Rotherham School and now I serve Rotherham young people and help them stay active both physically and mentally.

“I have built my business since 2011 and need to move into this unit to be able to allow my business to continue trading and accept the number of people wanting to join.”

The move would also allow the club to develop new inclusive cheerleading classes for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Two coaches have already been identified to undertake specialist training, with hopes of eventually offering sessions to Rotherham schools.

Trailblazer Allstars also provides cheerleading performances at Rotherham United matches and has previously supported free holiday activities for children.

The proposed facility would primarily operate between 5pm and 9.30pm on weekdays, with occasional weekend sessions.

The application includes plans to use the existing car park for parents dropping off and collecting children.

Rotherham Council’s economic development team has raised no objection, acknowledging that the proposal would result in the loss of a light industrial unit but could bring a long-vacant building back into use.

It said the scheme could support jobs, attract activity to the area and provide additional recreational opportunities.