Gateshead Council has launched the new-look Dunston Leisure Centre, following a £5.1m, year-long redevelopment designed by S&P Architects and delivered by Willmott Dixon.

The scheme formed part of a wider £36m investment by the local authority in improving its facilities, which included the revamp of Heworth Leisure Centre completed in late 2010. A new 219sq m (2,357sq ft) gym and two studios have been created as part of the scheme, which feature Trixter X-Bikes and Technogym stations, along with interactive dance mats.

Improved swimming pools; an upgraded sauna and steamroom; and revamped access to the centre's three squash courts have also formed part of the redevelopment. Gateshead Council head of sport, wellbeing and independence Louise Rule said: "The transformation that has taken place at Dunston is amazing.

"This is a really high class development that brings the very best in leisure facilities to Dunston. It's a great example in Gateshead Council's investment in the active and healthy future of the whole community." Other projects carried out as part of the borough-wide upgrade of leisure provision include a revamped Gateshead Leisure Centre and an upgrade of Gateshead International Stadium.

The new Blaydon Leisure and Primary Care Centre opened in October 2010. S&P Architects and Willmott Dixon have worked on each scheme.