Hinckley Leisure Centre is set to undergo a £500,000 revamp this autumn after Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council (HBBC) shelved plans to build a new facility as a result of the recession.

Working in partnership with SLM, the company which operates the centre on behalf of the council, the project will include the refurbishment of changing rooms and toilets, improvements to the reception area, and the creation of a new café and a multi-function room. The revamp, which also includes a range of mechanical and electrical upgrades and improvements to the building's exterior, is expected to get underway by October and is scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

Stuart Bray, HBBC's executive member for culture, regeneration and planning, said: "Hinckley Leisure Centre is already a very busy and well-used facility and the investment programme will ensure the centre can offer even more activities to ensure all the community benefit from an active lifestyle for years to come." The centre currently offers a Precor-equipped fitness suite, two exercise studios, three swimming pools and a sports hall, as well as squash courts and a conference room. It is expected to remain open throughout the duration of the works.