JD Gyms has opened a ‘state-of-the-art’ gym in Chatham.

The new gym launched today (12 December) at Horsted Retail Park, next to Home Bargains.

It is kitted out with more than 250 pieces of equipment across two floors, including cardio machines and a free weights area with over 20 benches.

The gym also has punch bags, saunas, a sled track and hundreds of classes a month in a spacious studio, which are included in the monthly membership.

It is open 24 hours, seven days a week and benefits from free parking.

Around 20 new jobs have been created.

The 23,000 sq ft unit was previously earmarked for a UFC gym, but those plans never materialised after years of delays.

Aman Dhillon, general manager at JD Gyms Chatham, said: “Chatham is a fantastic location, and we’ve had some incredible feedback from our members about the quality and variety of our equipment and the atmosphere in the gym.

“There’s nothing like it in the area. Anyone is welcome to come down and have a look around.’’

The low-cost fitness chain, part of JD Sports, opened a branch at Hempstead Valley last year.