THE owner of a gym is hoping to set up a second branch of his business in Darlington.

Jeremy Grant, who owns Grants Gym, in St Helen Auckland, is hoping to expand to a second gym in the New Year.

He has submitted a planning application to Darlington Borough Council's development and environment department for the change of use of a building in Barton Street to a weight training gym.

The building, currently known as National Tyre and Autocare, is used as a tyre sales and fitting site and for general vehicle repairs.

Mr Grant's present gym is at the rear of Maude Street, in St Helen Auckland.