Major refurbishment works to upgrade the facilities at Kingswood Leisure Centre are now underway, having started in mid-February.

Stage one of the refurbishment involves the main pool at Kingswood Leisure Centre, which will close for around 20 weeks, although the Learner Pool will remain open for lessons and public use during this time - as will all other areas of the Centre.

South Gloucestershire Leisure Trust (SGL), which runs the facility on behalf of South Gloucestershire Council, has taken steps to help water-based fitness activities continue to run during the refurbishment with many activities moving to alternative sites.

The nearest swimming pools to Kingswood are Longwell Green and Yate, and have been prepared for an increased level of attendance - more information about the centres including directions, travel, price and facilities can be found at www.sgleisure.org

As many water-based activities as possible that usually take place at Kingswood have already been accommodated at other swimming pools with new timetables in operation at these facilities.

Altogether, the refurbishment will include a 38-week programme of work that includes the work to the Main Pool that will eventually incorporate the Learner Pool, upgrading the changing areas, a new Active Fitness Gym and general improvements to the remaining facilities.

South Gloucestershire Council is investing nearly £3million in the refurbishment. The works are being carried out by contractor ISG Pearce.

Craig Smart, Operations Director at SGL, said: "The facilities at Kingswood Leisure Centre are a vital part of the community and we appreciate the patience and understanding of our customers during the refurbishment and we will be working with all our partners to minimise disruption.

"We apologise for this inconvenience and hope that other services in the area can help support people's fitness and wellbeing. We encourage anyone who has a query or problem to contact us."