A FORMER sports shop is set to open as a new gym in March.

PureGym submitted plans to convert the old DW Sports unit at Colchester Retail Park, in Sheepen Road, into one of its gyms, as well as adding a takeaway restaurant nearly 12 months ago.

The gym will be open 24 hours, seven days a week, creating approximately 14 new part-time and full-time jobs.

PureGym has now submitted a planning application to Colchester Council to allow it to put up signs at the site.

When asked by a Twitter user when the gym was set to open, the team confirmed it was aiming for March.

It said: "We’re aiming for March but that’s subject to change depending on the progress of work.

"Keep an eye out on the website where we will put updates when a date is confirmed."

The PureGym website said once open the Colchester gym will have more than 50 classes each week with a weights area, cycle studio and cardio machines.

The firm will also be hiring a team of personal trainers.

When the plans were submitted last February they included adding a takeaway restaurant to the unit.

A new entrance was planned to be created at the front of the premises for Subway, which already has town centre stores in High Street, Head Street and St Botolph’s Street, as well as three more further afield at Turner Rise Retail Park, Lightship Way and Stanway Retail Park.

Subway is expected to occupy the smaller unit once the premises are redivided and would have independent access via the rear of the property.

Visit www.puregym.com/gyms/colchester-retail-park/.