A FLEDGING gym owner is finding her size is causing a problem when it comes to setting up in businesss.

Annie Redelinghuys, 51, from Gravesend feels developers in the Thames Gateway have been short-sighted in their plans to house new businesses as she struggles to find suitable premises for her gym.

South African born Annie bought the rights to the Gravesham Curves gym franchise in 2004, but nearly two years later she is still searching for premises.

"There are no commercial premises in Gravesend which fit my spec," she said.

"It seems as though new buildings are scheduled to be ready for when the international train station at Ebbsfleet opens. So at present there’s nothing here for me, which I find surprising as a lot of people would like to set up their businesses now to be ready for Ebbsfleet."

Annie needs between 1,500 sq ft and 2,000 sq ft of space on one level with safe parking.

"We have looked at many venues and come across quite a few hurdles in trying to find the right location. Available premises tend to go to clients not needing a change of use, those with straight forward office needs," said Annie.

She would ideally like to be located in the town centre at the heart of the community she feels will benefit from the Curves concept.

"Gravesend is crying out for something like this," said Annie. "I know the town has a large Sheikh community. This is a community of women who cannot exercise or take health instruction with men. Curves is a women only gym; it is a perfect opportunity for those normally excluded to benefit."

Annie is passionate about the effectiveness of the Curves concept and has put it to the test herself.

'"I am a member of Curves in Maidstone and I have proved over a period of 18 months that it works. 'I have lost 15 inches, a stone and a half in weight and dropped two dress sizes – and I’m not even diligently following the diet."

Her enthusiasm has already attracted a waiting list of members and Annie has four staff ready to start work.

"'It’s embarrassing. I have the plans of how the gym will look and promotional cards all ready to go I just need somewhere for my ladies to go.

"But I am not one to give up. I am determined to keep on looking and I’m hoping that someone reading this will know of a fitting venue where the gym could be based."