Eldon Leisure Centre in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square Shopping Centre has been given a major £3m makeover to transform the 1970s site into a modern leisure hub.

Facilities development specialist Alliance Leisure partnered operator North Country Leisure (NCL) to bring the project to fruition. Having secured a competitive tender for the long term asset transfer and operation of the facility, NCL needed to produce an innovative and sustainable scheme to regenerate the site and future-proof its facilities. Designs for the project were produced by Birmingham-based architects Bignell Shacklady Ewing.

Phase one of the five-month scheme saw the fitness centre transformed into a brand new 12,000sq ft (1,115sq m) 145-station gym, containing equipment from a number of sources. The facility also features a dance studio and a group cycling studio.

In addition to the gym overhaul, Eldon Bowl – once an indoor bowling green – has been transformed into a 10,000sq ft (929sq m) eight-lane, ten-pin bowling facility.

Meanwhile, phase two of the project saw half of the ageing six-court sports hall converted into a new Vertigo Adventure Climbing facility, alongside the introduction of a significant Adventure Play provision, plus a newly-created modern café and dining areas.

“In partnership with North Country Leisure we have successfully transformed an ageing and costly facility into a highly-innovative sport and leisure destination for all ages,” said Alliance Leisure business development manager James Foley.

“In a challenging environment and short space of time we have delivered a smooth, efficient facility transformation that will inspire the local community to enjoy regular physical activity and most importantly have fun along the way. A financially sustainable development has also been created for the Trust.”