Preston Council approved investment in two of its leisure centres at a committee meeting last night. Councillors say they are trying to take a positive approach and keep investing, even though other authorities are closing leisure sites.

Fulwood Leisure Centre will receive £116,000 for a mezzanine floor which will house a gym. This will compensate for the loss of Fulwood Academy gym, which is being demolished. The space beneath the mezzanine has yet to have a dedicated use.

West View Leisure Centre is set to get £60,000 for a new dance studio as a result of public demand. To accommodate the new studio, a soft play area and squash court will be lost.

The council believes this will give a return on investment within five years, as it will allow a more varied programme, accommodate more members, generate cash and increase retention.