The countdown is on for the grand re-opening of the iconic Billingham Forum after its multi-million pound refurbishment.

The £18.5 million scheme is now complete and will re-open to the public on Friday 3 June for three days of special events, taster sessions and entertainment.

The contractors Morgan Sindall finished on site at the beginning of May and Stockton Council and Tees Active are working together to get the refurbished Forum building ready for the opening.

From Friday 3 June to Sunday 5 June there will be special taster sessions, and fitness classes as well as the chance to ice skate, swim, play badminton and squash as well as the opportunity for youngsters to try out the new play barn.

Councillor Ken Lupton, Leader of Stockton Council, said: "It is fantastic to see Billingham Forum about to re-open its doors as this is a much loved sports and leisure facility for the people of Billingham, Stockton Borough and the wider region. The weekend of celebrations will allow people to come in and try out all the different sessions."

The investment into the 1960s centre has transformed it into a state-of-the-art leisure and theatre facility for future generations to enjoy.

The new look centre includes:

* A swimming pool (6 lanes x 25m) with the creation of an additional training pool together with the retained learner pool. Refurbished changing rooms, toilets and spectator areas

* An extended gym to offer an additional 30 health and fitness stations making 70 in total. Changing facilities have been improved and a new dance studio provided

* Structural improvements carried out to the theatre area and an enhanced entrance and hospitality areas

* The ice arena has been rejuvenated with a new ice pad and upgraded spectator area, toilets, and skate hire distribution point and changing facilities

* The indoor two lane bowls court has been refurbished as have the four court sports hall and two squash courts

* A more stylish and enhanced reception area with new central café area in a glazed atrium has been created, allowing visitors to the Forum to relax and enjoy their surroundings.

* A children's play barn plus catering and function room

Councillor Bob Cook, Stockton Council's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, said: "This ambitious refurbishment of the Forum has been a challenging scheme but through the partnership working with Morgan Sindall it is now complete and soon to be open for business. The building is now fit for modern purpose and ready for use for future generations."

The new distinctive cladding on the exterior of the building has been erected and as well as the visual improvements into Billingham Forum, Stockton Council has invested in further measures to reduce the carbon footprint of the building, including an advanced heating control system. Together, the improvements will increase the lifespan of the building to 30 years.

Steve Chaytor, Managing Director of Tees Active, said: "There is real excitement in Billingham and among the staff of Tees Active at the reopening of The Forum. We believe this is a scheme that puts Billingham Forum in the premier division of leisure facilities."