Altrincham Leisure Centre closed for 18 months last week after a multi-million-pound plan for the site was approved by the council.

The centre on Oakfield Road closed two days before Christmas and is not set to open as Move Altrincham until the summer of 2024.

On December 8, a multi-million-pound plan for the site was approved by the council, similar to the redevelopment of what is now Move Urmston in 2020.

It came after a consultation this year received comments from hundreds of residents, most of whom were in support of the proposals, Trafford Council said.

The plan includes a larger gym, two swimming pools, a sports hall and studios, as well as a range of other additions.

It also includes air source heat pumps and solar panels as Trafford Council continues to strive to be carbon neutral.

Jo Cherrett, chief executive of Trafford Leisure, said: "The local community in and around Altrincham are passionate about their town and have an overwhelming desire to see their community thrive. 

"When we reopen our doors, the modern, fit for purpose leisure venue will be an inspiring space to help local residents with every aspect of their wellbeing. It will become the second site Trafford Leisure will open under the new brand name.

“Move Altrincham, with its new extension, will offer more than 5,500 square metres of sport and leisure activities to help Trafford Leisure achieve its vision of Trafford becoming the most active place in England. 

"When Move Altrincham opens, the facilities, services and our team of wellbeing experts can help you move more every day. Together, let’s get Trafford moving more. Move Altrincham will showcase that there really is opportunity for physical activity for everyone.”

According to the council, all of the customers at the centre were informed of the closure and were given alternative sites for their activities, such as the Learn to Swim programme.  

This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.