WORK has started on the £1.5m redevelopment of a leisure centre.
The Birtley Leisure Centre project in Birtley, near Chester-le-Street, includes a fitness suite, a new entrance and reception, changing rooms, saunas and a new car park.
The investment comes from Gateshead Council's private sector partner, Competition Line (UK) Ltd, which has 38 Lifestyle Fitness clubs across the UK.
The new fitness club at Birtley Leisure Centre will house more than 80 pieces of the latest equipment, from free weights to the treadmills and cycles.
Lifestyle Fitness members will also benefit from Vivo - a computerised tracking system to ensure members achieve their goals.
Councillor David Napier, cabinet member for culture at Gateshead Council, said: "This will bring first-class fitness facilities at affordable prices for the people of Birtley and surrounding area."
Gordon Hall, managing director for Competition Line (UK) Ltd, said: "Lifestyle Fitness offers an environment to stimulate both body and mind.
"Stylish surroundings will house the best in cardio and resistance equipment with instructors on hand to help members achieve fitness goals."
The first phase of the redevelopment - the entrance, reception and the Lifestyle Fitness club - is due for completion in December with a final completion date for the centre of March next year.
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