Fitness centre work to end ahead of schedule

The new fitness centre at a £6.3 million sports centre in Staffordshire will open in February next year – five months ahead of schedule, it has been revealed today.

A new reception area will also be completed early as the Chase Leisure Centre in Cannock takes shape.

A new curved roof has finally been completed, changing the view from Stafford Road. Councillor George Adamson, leader of Cannock Chase Council" promised more investment when Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust take control of sporting facilities.

The group, with will also run entertainment facilities, will officially take over in February.

The contractors, GF Tomlinson's Ltd, moved on to the site on April 26.

The centre was completely closed for two days in June this year while the foundations of the new roof was put into place.

The full scheme also includes a 200-seat spectator gallery above the swimming pool, a modern changing area, dance studio, and replaced and upgraded mechanical and electrical services.

A date in February for the launch of the 150-station fitness centre, which includes dedicated changing facilities, is yet to be finalised.

Users will be able to enter through the new reception, instead of the current makeshift entrance at the back of the building.

Both pools were fully drained of water at the start of the project and all the tiles removed.

The new pool will have a moveable floor which will enable it to be split into two for teaching.

The anticipated completion date of July 20 next year will link in with the Olympic opening ceremony.

Discussions are taking place with runner David Moorcroft, from the Olympic Committee, for official bunting to display. The trust will take control of leisure centres, museums and theatres, bringing more than £2 million of extra investment.