A DEAL will be signed soon to open a health club is to open in north Colchester, creating 55 jobs.

David Lloyd Leisure is to create a health and racquets club featuring tennis courts, gym and swimming pool at the forthcoming Northern Gateway development, near the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

The deal will be agreed in principle following a meeting of Colchester Council’s cabinet on Monday, March 17.

Nick Barlow, councillor responsible for regeneration, said: “This is a very exciting proposal. David Lloyd Leisure is a well-known and respected health club company, and it's great that they want to come to Colchester.

“We’re beginning to see the next phase of regeneration in Colchester, creating important new opportunities for employment and leisure activities whilst generating a commercial return for residents.”

Legal details will be finalised in the coming months, followed by a public consultation and planning application.