PLANNERS were expected to approve proposals for a new health and beauty centre in Northwich as the Guardian went to press last night.

Boots the chemist plans to extend into the leisure and fitness market by creating a new BootsBody360 centre, in Leicester Street.

The original application for the centre, which will create at least 70 jobs in the town, was deferred after the Northwich Area Working Group expressed concern over the design of the proposed two-storey building, which will be painted white with silver cladding.

But an amended scheme was expected to be given the green light by Vale Royal Borough Council's planning committee last night, Tuesday - on condition that a noise survey and additional details for access and parking are carried out before building work starts.

Apart from London, Northwich will be one of the first in the country to benefit from the facilities on offer, which will feature an exercise studio, gym, swimming pool, hairdressers, sauna and spa, children's facilities and a cafe bar.

Plans for the centre also include a wide variety of health services ranging from traditional treatments such as physiotherapy, dentistry and facials, to alternative methods such as acupuncture, homeopathy and aromatherapy.