Wigan's new Healthy Living Zone, which forms one half of the Greater Manchester town's multi-million pound Life Centre development, has opened to the public for the first time.

Located on the site of the former College Avenue swimming baths, the venue boasts a 25m x 21m swimming pool with moveable floor and a 13m x 7.5m learner pool.

A 60-station Profiles Health and Fitness Centre equipped by Technogym and also offering a free weights area has also been created, along with a steam/sauna room and fitness studios.

The Health Living Zone represents the 'South Site' of the new Wigan Life Centre and will be joined by the 'North Site', including a library and an Information Zone, in early 2012.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT) will manage both parts of the £217m complex on behalf of Wigan Council, while NHS Ashton has also been involved with the project.

WLCT chief executive Stuart Murray said: "This is a flagship site for us that will play a key role in encouraging more people in the borough to get active."

Wigan Council cabinet member for leisure and culture Chris Ready added: "When this complex is complete, this one-stop shop will modernize the way we deliver public services."

Details: www.wigan.gov.uk