A DIY store will close its doors for the last time today ahead of plans to create new shops and a gym.

The branch of B&Q in Strood, which has been open for 30 years, is being replaced with three smaller units, a cafe and a 24-hour gym on the upper floor.

It is part of a revamp of Strood Retail Park which will see the existing slip road in Commercial Road removed and pedestrian access improved. The idea is to make the area more inviting to shoppers from the town centre.

The gym, run by The Gym Group chain, will be low-cost and aimed at shift workers. The other tenants are yet to be confirmed.

Heidi Reynolds, B&Q divisional director, said: “B&Q is committed to our customers in Kent and we will be sorry to move our business from the Strood store after 30 years of successful trading.

“We look forward to welcoming our Strood customers to our Gillingham and other local stores.”