Harwich Carpetright could become a gym creating 30 new jobs

The old Carpetright store on Harwich Gateway Retail Park has been empty since Carpetright went into administration in July.

Tendring Council has now received a planning application for change of use from retail to a gym.

The application says benefits would include the reuse of a vacant unit, further investment in the retail park, an increase in the “vitality and viability” of the area, as well as the creation of up to 30 full and part-time jobs.

Closed - The carpet and tiling retailer has been forced to close more than 200 stores. (Image: Google Maps) The application says there is a lack of modern indoor gym facilities within the town and that the potential use as a gym will offer the opportunity for employment.

Councillors were pleased the proposals could bring 30 new jobs in the area, and that the empty  unit would be brought back into use.

Bill Davidson, ward councillor for Dovercourt Vines, said: “Rather than having an empty shop, I think it’s a really good idea.

“It’s a great idea and it will be good for people’s fitness.

“The proposal for a gym goes with everything we’re looking towards about people getting fit.

“It’s a great idea, and if it brings more employment to the area, then I am all for it.”

Carpetright is an Essex-headquartered carpet and tiling retailer which went into administration and was acquired by rival Tapi in July, which saved more than 300 jobs, 54 stores and two warehouses.

At the time of its collapse, Carpetright had 273 stores across the UK, plus 19 concessions, and employed almost 1,900 people.

More than 200 stores and 1,600 jobs were lost.

Carpetright stores in Clacton and Colchester also closed.

The branch at Braintree Retail Park shut, but was recently reopened by Bensons for Beds.