WORK has got underway on a £2.5m re-vamp of Northallerton’s leisure centre.

Construction work on the Hambleton District Council-un facility includes a gym extension, toning studio and two studios for group exercise and spinning classes, and new, improved changing rooms.

The authority is working with development partner Alliance Leisure Services on the large scale redevelopment scheme.

The first phase includes work on the gym extension, the outdoor changing rooms and sports hall refurbishment. Access to the current gym will be unaffected.

Centre members and regular customers have been informed via letter or email – with information on the work also displayed within the centre and on Hambleton.gov.uk/zest/hlcproject

“This is a very exciting scheme for Northallerton – and Hambleton District Council,” said council leader Mark Robson.

“It will mean we can offer an improved programme of activities to help promote the health and well-being of people of all ages and levels of fitness.”

The lion’s share of the project - £2.3m -will be borne by Hambleton District Council. The remaining £213,000 comes as National Lottery funding from Sport England – which is specifically targeted at improving the swim change facilities.