A MEGA gym featuring over 400 pieces of equipment and a running track is planned for Greenock.

Leeds-based company Xercise4Less is preparing to open its first Inverclyde fitness centre, which will also feature bike and class studios and a ladies-only area.

Officials from the budget gym operator are staying tight-lipped about where and when their new Greenock gym will open but have confirmed that plans are in the pipeline and have already started advertising the facility on their website.

The firm has in the region of 55 facilities across the UK, including in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cumbernauld and Livingston.

The Scottish portfolio also features gyms in Hamilton, Falkirk, Dundee, East Kilbride, Motherwell and Renfrew.

Another in Greenock would take the total to 11 north of the border.

The company boasts over 200 fitness classes each week at all of its centres, which are open seven days a week and will have free customer parking.

On the firm's website, it says 'Xercise4Less is coming to Greenock', and encourages people to sign up.

The opening times are listed as 6am to 10pm Monday to Friday and from 8am to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

According to the website, Xercise4Less clubs 'offer members of all ages the opportunity to exercise and live a healthy lifestyle in a non-intimidating and judgement-free environment, at an affordable cost'.

It adds: "We pride ourselves in the facilities that we have on offer throughout our fitness clubs.

"With various sites offering a full boxing ring, combat classes and TRX facilities, and with over 400 pieces of equipment at all of our clubs, we offer the best all round member experience in the industry compared to other budget operators.

"The sizes of our clubs are designed to make you feel at ease even through the busiest times, allowing you to stick to your exercise plan and not have to wait for any equipment. "Our clubs are designed especially with customers in mind, fully air-conditioned and have changing room and shower facilities with secure lockers for you to use at your leisure."

The Tele contacted Xercise4Less for a comment.