A £6.1 million deal has been signed to redevelop and extend Monmouth Leisure Centre, with work already under way.

Bristol-based construction firm ISG has been appointed by Alliance Leisure to deliver the multi-phased project, which is due to be completed by the end of 2018.

A new steel-frame, glass-fronted extension will be built housing a children’s play area and café, while the refurbished leisure centre will include the existing squash courts and house a toning suite, group cycling studio, exercise studio and 65-station gym.

That part of the project is expected to open to the public next summer, while the second phase will see ISG create a new 25-metre five lane swimming pool, a village changing and health suite, including a sauna, steam room and spa bath.

The scheme has involved the construction of a temporary sports hall to allow Monmouth Comprehensive School and the community to continue to use sporting facilities whilst work is carried out. 

The 450 sq m temporary building has been built on top of the tennis courts on the school site at a cost of £400,000.

With the school also being completey rebuilt at a cost of £43m, it marks an investment by Monmouthshire County Council of around £50m at the site.

The main leisure centre closed in mid-November to allow construction work to begin.

As well as the temporary hall catering for pupils and sports clubs, equipment has been moved to a ‘pop up’ fitness suite and class studio at the Old Market Hall next to Monmouth Museum.

For more information, see www.facebook.com/MonmouthLeisureCentre