A new multi-million pound leisure centre - designed by S&P Architects and built by Willmott Dixon - has been unveiled by Gateshead Council.

Heworth Leisure Centre is the second of two new-build facilities to open as part of the council's wider £37m investment in local sport and leisure provision. The new complex boasts a Flowrider - the North East's first indoor surfing facility, in addition to a four-lane, 25m swimming pool, a learner pool and a toddlers pool.

A 200sq m (2,153sq ft) fitness suite equipped by Technogym and changing facilities also comprise the offer at Heworth Leisure Centre, which replaces the former Felling Pool. The opening of the Heworth facility follows the launch of Blaydon Leisure and Primary Care Centre in October, the first of the new-build schemes to be completed.

Gateshead Council's investment programme has also included an £8m revamp of Gateshead Leisure Centre unveiled earlier this year. The redevelopment of Dunston and Birtley pools is scheduled for completion in early 2011, while work is continuing to overhaul Gateshead International Stadium.