Plans to redevelop Urmston Leisure Centre in Greater Manchester have been approved by Trafford Borough Council, paving the way for contractor Willmott Dixon to begin work later this year.

The centre, which dates back to the 1980s, will be totally overhauled as part of a £6.5m investment.

Once complete, facilities will include a new, glass-fronted gym with functional training area on the first floor, with views across the front of the building.

The existing swimming pool will be upgraded and a wellness studio will be built on the ground floor, designed to offer health-focussed training for the entire community – from elite athletes to those who are currently physically inactive.

Upgrades at Urmston form a part of Trafford Borough Council's overarching plans for leisure improvements across the entire borough.

In November 2016, the council revealed plans to invest £24.4m in improving the region’s leisure facilities, as part of its Physical Activity Vision leisure strategy.

The council, which owns nine leisure centres in Greater Manchester, said the investment was needed after a joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) – published in 2016 – estimated that physical inactivity was costing the council an extra £4.8m each year.

Jo Cherrett, chief operating officer (COO) of Trafford Leisure said: “This is an important milestone for Urmston Leisure Centre, which is in need of a complete overhaul to provide modern, fun, fit for purpose facilities that will help local people to be more active.

“Customer experience forms the heart of the new design by architects 5 Plus and follows extensive consultation with the community, so we are confident the new facilities will encourage more participation locally.”

The exact timeline for the Urmston Leisure Centre redevelopment will be confirmed by early March, but works are expected to be completed by December.