Billingham Forum has closed to the public in order to allow construction work on a £15m refurbishment scheme to get underway at the leisure complex, which is expected to last for 18 months.

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council (SBC) and operator Tees Active are working in partnership on the revamp, which will include a six-lane, 25m swimming pool with a new training pool and existing learner pool and structural improvements to the theatre area. An extended gym to provide 30 additional stations, a new dance studio, an upgraded ice rink facility and an enhanced reception area also form part of the scheme, as well as improvements to the indoor, two-lane bowls court, the four-court sports hall and two squash courts.

Morgan Ashurst, the Warwickshire-based construction company has been appointed to deliver the scheme, which aims to ensure that the Billingham Forum is 'future-proofed' for at least 25 years, as well as providing a modern facility for local residents. SBC's cabinet member for regeneration and transport, Bob Cook, said: "The countdown really does start now for the start of this major refurbishment of what is a hugely popular facility at the heart of Billingham.

"Stockton Council and Tees Active are committed to the ongoing regeneration of our Town Centres and facilities and this joint £15 million investment will create a leisure facility for future generations."