OneGym signs for Chester-le-Street Wilko

The leisure business has taken on the 20,000 sq ft space on Osborne Road in the County Durham town.

Paul Pearson, co-founder and managing director of OneGym, said: “We are thrilled to be taking on the former Wilkos store in Chester-le-Street.

“We’ve been looking to open a gym in the town fo some time now so as soon as we were shown around the site, we knew it was perfect.

“It’s in a central location with great access to transport links, has over 90 parking bays and offers us over 20,000 sq ft to fit it out. It had absolutely everything we were looking for.”

Opening later this year, the branch will mark the fast-growing chain’s 11th North East venue, following recent openings in Durham, Sunderland and Wallsend.

“As two brothers who were born and raised in the region and have a real passion for fitness, it’s been a labour of love in so many ways, especially when we look at how we’re supporting our local communities and helping improve the lives of others,” said fellow co-founder, David Pearson.

“The hard work now begins in getting this site ready to open and then turning our attention at where we go from there.”

The deal to take on the Osborne Road site was brokered by agent Bradley Hall.

Callum Armstrong, senior surveyor, said: “It’s been fantastic working with David, Paul and the wider OneGym team on this project.

“The transformation of the site into a 24-hour, affordable gym will once again see it become a key amenity for local residents, while providing a major boost to the local high street.

“We’d like to wish them all the best as they progress with the development and have every confidence that it will prove a huge hit.”