Alphen aan den Rijn building to reopen as gym after years of vacancy

A long-vacant commercial building in the center of Alphen aan den Rijn is set to reopen as a gym. The former Kijkshop location on Pieter Doelmanstraat, situated next to the Alphensebrug, has been largely empty for at least six years following the retailer's closure in March 2017.

Landlord John Rimmelzwaan reported that while there were attempts to convert the building into apartments, the project was not financially viable. The prolonged vacancy resulted in high costs for the owner. A new Snap Fitness location is expected to open in October.

Local residents and center manager Marc Krimpenfort expressed optimism regarding the development, noting that the arrival of a new tenant will bring life back to the building and benefit the town center. Although some expressed surprise at the addition of another gym to the area, officials believe there is sufficient demand for fitness facilities.