Hornchurch Argos to become ladies-only gym and nail salon

Havering Council has granted planning permission for Goldex Investments Group to turn the former Argos store at 84-88 Hornchurch High Street into three new units.

These will be a women-only gym run by Goldex Fitness Ltd, a nail salon operated by Goldex Beauty Ltd, and a coffee shop let to a third-party operator.

The planning officer's report reveals that only two letters of representation were received about the proposals, noting that there are already "a number of gyms, nail bars and coffee shops nearby" and raising concerns about the impact on parking and traffic.

However, the planning officer concluded that the plans "would not result in any significant parking or highway issues", and the application was approved with conditions relating to soundproofing and hours of use.

Developer Goldex already has three ladies-only gyms in Gillingham, Blackheath, and Sidcup - and says the Hornchurch facility will be the largest so far.

Existing Goldex Ladies-Only Gym in Blackheath (Image: Goldex Investments Group)

A spokesperson for Goldex previously told the Recorder: "As the UK’s largest ladies-only gym brand, we are incredibly excited about this opportunity and about becoming part of the Hornchurch community.

"Opening our largest gym here is a significant milestone for us, and we are very much looking forward to welcoming local women into a safe, secure, and inspiring space designed specifically for them."

The Hornchurch gym is set to feature "state-of-the-art" gym equipment, as well as a steam room, sauna, plunge pool, reformer pilates studio, and spin studio.

Meanwhile, the nail salon will be part of the Townhouse brand, with a focus on "premium products and beautifully designed salons", the spokesperson said.

The Argos store has been vacant for more than four years and was previously up for sale on Rightmove in February 2025.