Projekt 42 has received the go ahead to build a permanent home - after a successful launch earlier this year

A community facility which aims to help people feel the benefits of keeping fit is set to expand.

Projekt 42, a charity which aims to tackle poor mental health in Edinburgh, has secured planning permission to open a new health and wellbeing centre.

Work is set to start on the new building in Halmyre Street, Leith - which is situated just a stone’s throw away from the existing Projekt 42 gym at the New Kirkgate Centre - within months.

Sara Hawkins, founder of Projekt 42, said: “We’re delighted to have received permission from Edinburgh Council for the new centre on Halmyre Street, and can’t wait to get our teeth into the next stage of the process.

“We know from our temporary site how high the demand is for our facilities, so it’s exciting to be able to get started working on bigger and better plans for our new space.”

The temporary site opened in May and since then more than 1,500 people have subscribed to activities.

The charity aims to offer a space for locals to come together and enhance their fitness, while also improving their mental wellbeing.

Projekt 42 will run fitness classes, nutrition and food planning workshops, counselling, mindfulness sessions and a fitness academy, which will provide affordable qualifications to young adults in the capital.

With construction work set to start in spring 2018, the team is hoping to build on its good work so far.

The charity has been supported through the planning process by Buccleuch Property and is looking for further support from businesses who may be able to help.

Buccleuch’s managing David Peck said: “This truly is a project which will positively impact the local community, and we’re all looking forward to seeing it come to life.

“As we move forward with the build we will be seeking key materials including everything from portakabins to fixtures and fittings, and would encourage any local building and construction businesses who could help support this project to please get in touch.”