Gateshead Leisure Centre is poised to reopen on 17 April following a major £8m revamp - part of a wider council-led project to improve the city's leisure provision.

A new 650sq m (6,997sq ft), 150-station fitness suite equipped by Life Fitness has been created as part of the extensive renovation scheme, which has been designed by S&P Architects and carried out by construction firm Willmott Dixon. Other improvements included a new entrance and reception atrium, new spectator and viewing area with café, new sports, gym and pool changing facilities and an upgraded main swimming pool.

An additional teaching pool, new poolside sauna and steamrooms and three fitness studios complete the centre's facilities, along with two children's party rooms and two meeting rooms. Gateshead Council leader Mick Henry said: "This major project is part of a £36m investment that will see state-of-the-art sport and leisure facilities on the doorsteps of Gateshead residents inspiring them to lead healthy and active lives and this is the first of the new centres to open its doors."

The reopening of Gateshead Leisure Centre is the first scheme to be completed as part of a £36m investment in the city's leisure facilities, which will include two new leisure centres at Heworth and Blaydon. Existing facilities at Birtley and Dunston pools will be overhauled as part of the programme, while Gateshead International Stadium will also benefit from improvements.