Work has begun on the £7.4m (US$9.9m, €8.4m) extension of a South Wales leisure centre, which developers say was made possible by the UK Leisure Framework.

Alliance Leisure is delivering the scheme for Monmouthshire County Council, with the framework helping to reduce upfront costs.

The redevelopment of Monmouth Leisure Centre includes the addition of a toning suite to increase provision for sedentary people and those suffering from poor health conditions.

“We’ve been in discussions with Monmouthshire for some time, but it was the launch of the UK Leisure Framework earlier this year that allowed the council to proceed with the development in the most cost-effective way,” said Julia Goddard, senior business development manager at Alliance Leisure.

In March, Alliance was appointed to lead the framework. As Denbighshire County Council's partner in the scheme, it supports the delivery of design, refurbishment, construction, equipping and development of leisure centres, theatres, play, recreation and sports facilities across the UK public sector.

The framework, which is available until January 2021, makes it easier and more cost-effective for public sector providers to scope, develop and deliver physical leisure developments.

Once redevelopment of Monmouth Leisure Centre is completed, it will be run by Monmouthshire County Council.

Plans for the first phase, due to be completed in June 2018, show a 65-station gym, exercise studio, group cycling studio and changing rooms.

The second phase will finish in November 2018 and includes a 25-metre, five-lane swimming pool, a health suite with a sauna, steam room and spa bath, and a multi-purpose room.

Construction firm ISG has been confirmed as the principle build contractor for the redevelopment and a temporary four-court sports hall with changing rooms and toilets has been erected while the work takes place.