Wrestling academy set to open its doors this month

Steven Fludder, of Preston City Wrestling, submitted an application to change the use of an empty industrial unit in St Marys Street to a wrestling club.

And, if plans are given the go-ahead, PCW Academy is expected to open its doors later this month.

The plans are recommended for approval with conditions, and Steven hopes the academy will hold its first class on January 25, led by a former WWE superstar.

He said: “I want to expand what I do, but with something bigger in the local area rather than just a show every month or so.

“In a few years time, there could be people in WWE from Preston, and who trained and learned their craft here as well.”

Steven said the facility would be of a “high standard”, and would include two wrestling rings and a TV room.

He said: “It’s all about character work, it’s not just about the moves. It’s a big soap opera.

“You’ve got to be able to act and portray emotion and speak into a camera. A lot of it is acting skills and drama.”

Steven said he had already heard from dozens of people who were interested in joining.

He said: “I’ve had 85 apply and I’ve not really pushed it - there’s quite a demand for it.

“The trainer for the first one is going to be Chris Masters, ex-WWE.”

A decision on the application would normally have been made under delegated powers, but it will now be discussed by planning committee members at a meeting on January 12, as Preston Council is the owner of the building.