A FORMER carpet retailer on the edge of Bury town centre could become a gym, plans have revealed.

The vacant Floors to Go store, which closed in 2018, would be used as a gymnasium for boxing and martial arts, if the council allows the move to go ahead.

A planning application submitted by Box Room Gymnasium includes upgrading the building internally and externally.

It said: "The applicant believes they have identified an ideal use for the property. The scheme is well-supported financially and this application presents the opportunity for the creation of a well-run facility with a strong community ethos which will bring great opportunities for local youth at whom it is aimed.

"Should this enterprise succeed as the partners envisage, it will become a beacon for the sport in the region, and a credit to the town."

The gym would be used by pupils from local schools who would attend group classes during the day time, according to the proposal.

The busy time for the gym will be between 5pm and 9pm, it said.

The premises themselves have space to park four cars and a single motorcycle currently but the applicant intends to apply for five permits to park on Millett Street, according to the application.

Negotiations over parking spaces are already underway with the trustees of the Baden Powell Hall situated nearby.

It said: "The scout leaders seemed to feel there could be some mutual benefits for both organisations if close cordial relations can be established. Such operation could lead to the development of strength and integrity in the young people involved.

"There have also been some encouraging exchanges with the supervising members of the Polish Church at the southern end of Millett Street for use of their car park. This can hold up to 50 vehicles and could be brought into use to cover the occasional open day or exhibition."