A MAJOR refurbishment scheme for Urmston Leisure Centre has been given the green light by council chiefs.

Members of the town hall's powerful executive committee agreed to a £6.4m upgrade of the centre on Monday.

That is more than three times the level of investment that was originally earmarked for the centre.

The plans are part of the council’s commitment, made last November, to invest in the borough’s leisure facilities.

Town hall bosses say that investment is now likely to amount to some £30m, which is £6m more than anticipated last year.

This investment follows an extensive review of leisure provision and commercial opportunities as part of an overarching ‘Physical Activity Vision’ for Trafford. 

The Urmston investment will see a major refurbishment and extension of the existing facilities.

Council bosses say the upgraded facilities will include a larger, modern fitness suite, a dance studio, improved pool viewing balcony and a new reception area. There are also plans for a new first floor area with multi use studios, wellness rooms and on the ground floor clip and climb and soft play equipment.

Last week it was disclosed that a new leisure centre for Stretford will be opened on the proposed UA92 site.

The leader of the council, Cllr Sean Anstee said: “We are planning an exciting programme of investment over the coming months with the recent announcement of a new Stretford Leisure Centre and now an investment of £6.4m in Urmston Leisure Centre.

"Our ambition in Trafford is for every resident to become more active because we know it has immeasurable benefits to people’s health and wellbeing.

"Investment in leisure provision across the borough is a key part of realising that ambition and we are absolutely delighted to be announcing these plans to radically improve facilities at Urmston today. This will be one of many leisure developments to be announced across Trafford.”

Cllr Laura Evans, a member of the executive, said: “Our investment in Urmston is just the beginning of an exciting journey that will see residents at the heart of first class leisure and sporting facilities across Trafford.”

The council plans to close nearby George H Carnall Leisure Centre in Davyhulme, and this has sparked a large-scale protest.