A new gym could open at a Suffolk retail park early next year if plans are approved by the council.

East Anglian Daily Times: The gym would be based in the currently vacant unit three at the site Picture: GOOGLE MAPSThe gym would be based in the currently vacant unit three at the site Picture: GOOGLE MAPS (Image: Archant)

PureGym Ltd has submitted proposals at Haverhill Retail Park on Ehringshausen Way, which currently contains Home Bargains, Pets at Home and a Lidl supermarket.

PureGym, which has more than 230 existing sites in the UK, has applied to West Suffolk Council for change of use from retail to a gym, with minor external alterations, for the vacant unit three at the park.

The proposed gym will comprise a main gym area, studio, free weights area, spin area and functional zone.

Changing facilities and showers will also be provided, as well as a small seating area for the use of members, and staff facilities.

PureGym sites operate on a 24-hour basis, seven-days-a-week and the company said such gyms typically provide up to 12 full and part-time jobs at each branch - including management roles, personal trainers and cleaners.

Minor alterations to the existing building are also proposed with plans to install new doors which will provide improved access to the gym for all visitors, including those with disabilities.

In the planning statement, PureGym said: "The flexible format of the PureGym concept, including its 24-hour opening and the absence of fixed term contracts, will support flexible working practices, enabling the benefits of gym membership to be enjoyed by all members of the local community.

"It will create up to 12 jobs, promote healthier lifestyles and support the reduction of health inequalities by expanding the provision of affordable and flexible fitness facilities within this part of west Suffolk."

In terms of security, access to the gym will be controlled by the use of an eight-digit pin code, which is provided to each member.

The gym will also be covered by an extensive CCTV network, the company added.

Duncan Costin, property director at PureGym, said: "Pure Gym have agreed terms to take a unit on Haverhill Retail Park which is still subject to securing a satisfactory planning consent from the local authority. "Assuming our application is successful we'll press on with plans to open one of our smaller format 'Pure Gym Local' gyms.

"The facility will bring affordable health and fitness to the people of Haverhill and we would anticipate an opening date early in 2020 if all goes to plan."