A NEW gym is set to open in a former record store which had become an eyesore.

Energie Fitness is in the final stages of finishing work to renovate the property in Western Road, Brighton.

The building used to be home to HMV before the retailer moved into Churchill Square.

A ground floor shop and basement level have been unoccupied since 2019.

In April, The Argus revealed the developers aimed to have 1,000 members at the site.

The gymnasium would be opened on both the ground floor and in the basement, according to the proposals outlined earlier this year.

Energie Fitness, which runs 95 gyms in the UK and Ireland, said: “The gym will benefit the night-time economy and contribute to the character and function of the surrounding area.”

The company said the empty site has “failed to contribute” to the surrounding area since the last business closed its doors.

It has been targeted by graffiti vandals and has also been a site where homeless rough sleepers set up an encampment in 2019.

Argus readers labelled the site as one of the worst eyesores in the city. But this month, new signs went up at the site and now the graffiti-daubed hoardings are being replaced by new glass windows.

It is understood that work to get the gym ready for opening will continue, although because of the new coronavirus lockdown, fitness enthusiasts will have to wait.

Energie Fitness said the new gym is “conveniently located in the heart of Brighton”.

The company says it wants to open a 24-hour facility and create up to ten jobs for a manager, gym staff and personal trainers.

It said: “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of the community and with a series of organised events bring enjoyment and fun back into fitness.

“We have an offering for all ages and abilities, whether you are new to fitness or a seasoned gym user.”

They said members will be greeted with a smile from knowledgeable professionals who can offer a “tailored exercise programme” to help people reach their goals.

The two tiers of membership look set to be priced at £19.99 per month, and £25.99 per month, with various extras including classes for the higher price.