A NEW gym could open in Braintree, creating 38 new jobs.

Ab Salute Gym, which has gyms in Brentwood, Thurrock and Chelmsford, is hoping to open another gym on Springwood Industrial Estate.

The gym has applied to Braintree Council to change the use of one of the units to leisure, in the hope of improving wellbeing in the town.

Smart Planning said in a statement to the council: "The applicant operates a number of training gyms in Essex and is seeking to expand the business by opening a specialist gym in Braintree.

"The proposal will ensure the empty building of Cooper Drive is bought back into a viable economic use by providing a sustainable business, employment opportunities and a new health and leisure facility for the area and town."

Ab Salute Gym has been in business since 2010, at their home in Romford.

Due to their success staff are looking to improve health in Braintree.

The new gym will create jobs for 19 full time staff and 19 part time staff.

The planning statement said: "They are aware that Springwood Industrial Estate is a large hub of employment and are proposing to allow any employer or employee within the estate to obtain a membership at a discounted rate and without contract.

"Hopefully by doing this it will get the workforce on Springwood Industrial Estate active, using their lunch hour, or after work to exercise and improve their health.

"Not only will this benefit them, it will also benefit their employer from an increase in productivity."

The proposal involves the change of use of the existing industrial unit into a gym, office, cafe and storage.

The gym will contain free weights, a cardio area and exercise areas.

It is proposed to be open Monday to Friday, 6am to 10.30pm and on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays 8am to 5pm.

The planning statement said: "The provision of a gym in this location would clearly provide an amenity for the

benefit of nearby workers and local residents.

"In addition the provision of a gym would support the Governments and council’s corporate objectives by promoting healthier and more active lifestyles."