Proposals for a health and sports club next to Colchester United’s football ground have been submitted to Colchester Borough Council.

David Lloyd Leisure wants to bring a Health and Racquets Club to the Northern Gateway development, on land next to the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

The plans include tennis courts, a gym and swimming pools, and if approved would create around 70 new jobs.

The Northern Gateway project from the council aims to create a “distinctive and welcoming gateway to Colchester” off junction 28 of the A12.

A leisure facility such as the sports club has long been part of the vision for the site.

Bill Frame, borough councillor for economic growth and planning, said: “We are delighted this planning application has been submitted.

“David Lloyd Leisure is a nationally well-known and respected health club organisation and we are extremely pleased they are looking to bring a facility to Colchester.

“The Northern Gateway development will create many new opportunities for employment and will be an attractive and sustainable new destination for sports, leisure and business.

“We are excited at the progress being made in this area, which will generate significant benefits for residents and businesses plus also bring new investment to the borough.”

Future plans for the Northern Gateway include tree-lined streets, open spaces and a shared space environment.

Wider plans include relocating Colchester Rugby Club, whose pitches back up to the area, to the north of the A12 and creation of a outdoor cycle track, with some development on the existing rugby club site.

The David Lloyd Leisure planning application will be considered by the council’s planning committee in due course.