A BUILDING off Northwich’s gyratory which has stood empty for eight years is finally set to be brought back into use.

easyGym, which is part of the same company as easyJet, is set to open its doors at the former J&S motorcycle accessories store on the corner of Chesterway and London Road.

The site has stood empty since J&S moved to Oakmere in 2010, while TK Maxx gained planning permission to open a new store there in 2016 – only for the American firm to pull out of the plans shortly after.

But now Cheshire West and Chester Council has granted easyGym planning permission for the site.

While welcoming news that the building will be brought back into use as a means to get residents fit and active, Cllr Sam Naylor, ward member for the town centre on CWAC, admits he has mixed views on the new gym.

“Anything is better than seeing that kind of building continuing to be empty after eight years,” he said.

“Having said that, I’m a gym user myself and all my immediate family use various gyms around the town. People could argue that the town is becoming saturated with gymnasiums.

“Anything that’s bringing new facilities into the town I am all for, but I think it would be a shame if there was a knock-on effect for one of the other well-established gyms.”

Other gyms close to the planned easyGym include the PureGym in Leicester Street, Dave’s Gym off Station Road and the Brio at Memorial Court.

easyGym had hoped to open the new 1,100sq m gym this month when it submitted its planning application in June.

In its planning application the company said it expected to employ seven full-time members of staff and it would look to attract 3,000 new members.

Cllr Naylor added: “Where they are getting 3,000 members from I don’t know, [although] there are new houses springing up all over the place.

“But you can’t stifle competition and at the end of the day the market will decide.”

easyGym has been approached for comment.