Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and leisure operator Tees Active have announced that the Billingham Forum complex is to reopen on 3 June, following an £18.5m overhaul.

Morgan Sindall, the scheme's main contractor, completed work on site at the start of May, which has enabled preparations to commence ahead of the leisure venue's reopening. Facilities at the Devereux Architects-designed Billingham Forum include a six-lane, 25m swimming pool, with an additional training pool and the retained learner pool.

Refurbished changing rooms and spectator areas; an extended gym to accommodate 70 stations; a rejuvenated ice arena; and a new-look indoor two-lane bowls are also included. Elsewhere, the four-court sports hall and two squash courts have been upgraded and a number of structural improvements made to the venue's theatre area.

Stockton Council cabinet member for regeneration and transport Bob Cook said: "This ambitious refurbishment of the Forum has been a challenging scheme but through the partnership working with Morgan Sindall it is now complete. "The building is now fit for modern purpose and ready for use for future generations."