South coast leisure operator BH Live and Bournemouth Borough Council have invested £1m ($1.3m, €1.1m) on revamping Stokewood leisure centre.

A new floor has been built, more than doubling the size of the gym to 583sq m (6,275sq ft), creating extra space for Life Fitness gym equipment. A QUAD functional fitness zone for instructors to deliver power, primal, play and pulse gym-based classes has also been introduced.

It is hoped that the broader range of kit will encourage inactive people – especially those living with health conditions and young people – to get more active.

Customers can get a health MOT in the centre’s new health assessment zone. Blood pressure checks, body fat measurements and weight reviews will help customers to create their personal goals, build a personalised activity programme and track progress.

Peter Gunn, BH Live’s chief executive, said: “The improved space and new facilities at Stokewood are fantastic and it’s very encouraging to see so many people already using them.

“In partnership with the council, we are continuing to increase the quality of public facilities and meet the expectations and needs of our community; encouraging more people to be more active and enjoy the social, health and wellbeing benefits.”

The new space has environmentally friendly (LED) lighting, insulation and climate control. Original features, including a stained glass window and grand central staircase, have been retained.

Councillor John Beesley, council leader, said: “Council investment in this popular centre aligns with our commitment to provide facilities for an active community. I am also delighted that improvements have been implemented with environmental considerations.”