Plans to convert a former Home Bargains store into a gym have been approved despite nearly 100 objections.

An application was submitted by Fervid Fitness in September to transform the empty unit on Flint Retail Park into a “state-of-the-art” gym and fitness suite.

It followed the discount chain moving to a larger store on the same retail park last year.

Shaun Thomas, who owns the gym company, previously said he was hoping to open the fitness centre in January.

A total of 99 objections were submitted against the proposals after complaints there were already too many gyms nearby.

However, officials from Flintshire Council said the issue was not relevant and have now given the green light for the plans.

In a report, planning officer Alison Dean said: “There are a number of vacant units at present within the town centre which includes Flint Retail Park.

“The use of one unit for a gym is therefore not considered to have an adverse effect on the existing retail offer and there are a number of vacant units which are available for retail uses if the demand arises.

“Furthermore the use is not considered to have any detrimental effect on the living conditions of occupiers.

“A significant number of objections have been received in relation to competition due to the number of gyms already in the area. This is however not a planning consideration.

“There are no policies to restrict the number of gyms within an area, therefore the principle of the proposals are acceptable in accordance with the above policies.”

In addition to the objections, two e-mails were also received in support of the proposals.

The gym’s opening hours will be from 6am to 10pm on weekdays and between 8am and 7pm on weekends and bank holidays.

In a post on its website, the company said: “Our team is working hard behind the scenes to get your new, modern workout zone in Flint, ready.

“Fervid Fitness will offer a cardiovascular area, combat zone, large free weights and resistance area, and a functional training zone with state-of-the-art facilities.

“Our self-contained changing rooms will offer vanity units with hair straighteners, lockers and showers and toilets.”