WORK is now underway on a major £2.5 million refurbishment of Cricklade Leisure Centre.

More than £2.5m is being invested in the centre as part of Wiltshire Council’s programme aimed at improving community facilities.

It is hoped that the investment will encourage more people to participate in leisure activities, an improved customer experience and ensure the long-term sustainability of the leisure centre.

The centre will remain open during construction.

From Monday through to autumn 2020, the fitness suite will be relocated to a temporary building on-site and the café will be closed.

The swimming pool will be closed during this time to allow for important upgrades to be made to it.

Improvements work will see the fitness suite increase in size by extending the first-floor area over the old squash courts.

It will also result in a new multi-function room, offering flexible space for meetings, functions, children’s parties and small events.

The ground floor will see the introduction of a purpose-built dance/exercise studio providing the perfect space for popular classes.

There will be a complete refurbishment of the wet change facilities providing more space for users and a more comfortable modern environment.

A new accessible changing facility, equipped with hoist and changing bed, will greatly improve accessibility for customers with additional needs.

The installation of a lift will also provide easier access to the first floor.

Cricklade Leisure Centre will also be redecorated, and key building infrastructure will be upgraded.

Wiltshire Council will be working closely with the contractor and the centre team to keep disruption to a minimum and reduce impact on services wherever possible.

Cllr Allison Bucknell, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for communities and leisure, said: “We have a great track record of revitalising local facilities.

“Cricklade Leisure Centre and its local community will benefit from this investment and it will provide a space for a wide variety of activities for people of all ages.”

Work on the centre is expected to conclude by the end 2020.