AN application to build a David Lloyd health and fitness club in Colchester looks set to be approved this week.

David Lloyd Leisure wants to build the complex near Colchester United’s Weston Homes Community Stadium.

Earlier this year, the Gazette reported the club wanted to open in the town, creating 55 jobs.

Colchester Council’s planning officers have recommended the planning committee approve the application, subject to conditions.

These include an agreement stating a multi-use games area can be used by Colchester Council for free at certain times.

Outline permission for a leisure facility was granted in 2006.

Bill Frame, Colchester councillor responsible for economic growth, said: “It’s a feather in Colchester’s cap that David Lloyd is willing to invest quite a bit of money in Colchester and can see the potential of what it offers.

“Like all big companies, it looks around all the time at various towns to see which way the wind is blowing.

“It has obviously earmarked Colchester as a potential growth area.

“Hopefully, its dreams will be released and we will have a nice leisure complex.”

The centre’s main building would be 4,800 sq metres and would contain tennis courts, a swimming pool, gym, studios, changing rooms, and a clubhouse with bar and restaurant.

Outdoor facilities would include more tennis courts with a seasonal dome, a members’ terrace and a pool spa garden.

The centre would also have a multi-use games area and seating, at the front near United Way, with equipment and markings for a range of ball games.

This would be open to all and free for 500 hours a year, and the rest of the time would be charged at £15 an hour for youth and disabled sports organisations and schools and £25 an hour for everyone else.

David Lloyd did not wish to comment.

The planning committee meets at Colchester Town Hall, in High Street, from 6pm on Thursday.