A wellness influencer who divested all her possessions to establish a £30,000 garden Pilates studio has alleged that objecting locals have resorted to creating fake social media profiles to monitor her activities.
Megan Smith launched Luco Wellness in early November, setting up the business in her grandparents’ residence in Kings Lynn, West Norfolk. After teaching and training in Dubai for three years, the 24-year-old entrepreneur decided to take the leap and establish her own studio. To fund the Pilates equipment, she sold her vehicle and other belongings.
Despite gaining popularity in the last two months, some residents have expressed discontent over the studio’s opening, citing concerns about noise disturbances and improperly parked vehicles potentially affecting their daily lives. Luco Wellness operates from 6am to 7pm on weekdays and 9am to 12 noon on weekends, offering up to seven classes per day alongside an on-site café called Luco Nourish, which serves coffee, Acai bowls, and matcha beverages.
Approval for the studio is pending, with West Norfolk Council scheduled to evaluate the application for a change of use next week. Despite facing multiple complaints from irate locals since the submission of the proposal in September, Megan justified her decision to open without planning permission, stating that she couldn’t delay earning income any longer.
In an interview with MailOnline, Megan expressed her determination to pursue her dream despite facing opposition: “I had invested so much time and effort into this project, and I refused to let narrow-minded individuals deter me from pursuing my passion.” She also revealed that certain individuals have been monitoring her social media activities through fake accounts.
While concerns have been raised about the scale of Megan’s business, with Luco Wellness hosting events like hen parties and corporate gatherings, she clarified that the studio primarily focuses on yoga and Pilates classes, with additional services limited to enjoying refreshments like coffee or matcha.
Several locals have engaged a local planning firm to challenge the planning application, citing worries about increased traffic, noise levels, and gatherings in the area. The council is expected to decide on the application on January 12.
Megan assured that the studio will not play loud music and outlined plans for a controlled flow of traffic on her grandparents’ driveway, which has historically accommodated up to 12 vehicles for private events. The planning officer’s report emphasized that the proposed development is well-managed, generates minimal traffic, and aligns with national, local, and neighborhood planning policies by promoting health, well-being, and social benefits.