JJB Sports planning to open new Health Club/Store Unit in Widnes

JJB Sports is planning to open a new health club and store totalling 4,645 sq m (50,000 sq ft) in Widnes which will provide a major boost to the regeneration of the town centre being carried out by Widnes Regeneration Ltd, the joint company formed between St Modwen Properties PLC and Halton Borough Council.

The two-storey development, which would feature a health club on the ground floor, a first floor retail unit and adjacent parking for 160 cars, would create 50 new jobs.

“Detailed planning consent is being sought and it is hoped that the development will be handed over to JJB Sports for a mid-summer opening in 2003,” said Michelle Taylor, regional director of St Modwen. “The building will be constructed on a brownfield site adjacent to the new Peelhouse Lane link road which the council is building.”

Barry Dunn, property director of JJB Sports, said: “The planned new retail and health club will be similar in concept to our club at St Helens and will be of great benefit to Widnes which has had a JJB store for more than 20 years.”

For further information contact Michelle Taylor of St Modwen on 01925-825950.

Issued by Paul Raymer of Howle Chapman Raymer (0121-236-7771)