The £3 million revamp of the Deben Leisure Centre is nearing completion according to council bosses. The centre in Woodbridge has been closed for 10 months while the work has been carried out.
A number of notable changes have taken place to the building in the intervening time.
The building is now two storeys high and includes a number of renovated and improved facilities.
A space on the ground floor has now been created for local dance studios to hire out and includes a sprung floor, full-length mirrors and a projector and screen.
On the newly-created second floor is a state-of-the-art gym which includes a plethora of new, high tech equipment.
Another addition is a room for spin cycling classes.
The only area of the centre which bares any resemblance to the original building is the pool itself, which has been re-tiled and reconfigured to include a specially dedicated viewing area just off the side of the swimming area.
On the other side of the pool is a a brand new steam and sauna room for visitors to relax in after a long workout.
“I don’t think they will recognise the place,” said Suffolk Coastal district councillor and cabinet member for customers, communities and leisure, TJ Haworth-Culf.
“It’s a brand new facility really.
“We want to encourage people to stay fit and healthy for the future and encourage them to take up any activity.”
A heavy emphasis has been placed on making the new building accessible to all users.
A new “village style” changing area has been designed to be practical for all types of users including families and those with disabilities.
Jeremy Boreham, area manager for Places for People Leisure, which will be managing the new-look centre, said: “The staff is looking forward to welcoming back our regulars and the many new customers who will be attracted to this outstanding facility.
“With excellent customer service, affordable prices and a wide range of activities to choose from, this is the ‘Place’ to be if you want to have fun while enjoying a healthier lifestyle.”
The new building has come in on time and on budget.
With just a few snagging issues to resolve, hopes are high that the centre will re-open in the middle of this month.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here