New Leisure Complex Opens In Gateshead

Gateshead Council has unveiled a new multi-million pound health and leisure complex on the former site of Blaydon Comprehensive School.

Blaydon Leisure and Primary Care Centre has been developed by the local authority and NHS South of Tyne and Wear to incorporate a primary care centre and an active leisure element.

Facilities that comprise the leisure part of the development include a 317sq m (3,412sq ft) fitness suite equipped by Technogym; a six-lane, 25m swimming pool and a learner pool. A multi-purpose room and additional changing facilities for outdoor activities on the existing athletics track are also included. The new complex also boasts a range of health facilities.

Blaydon Leisure and Primary Care Centre is the first of two new-build schemes planned by Gateshead Council as part of its £36m investment in local leisure provision. The second - Heworth - is due to be completed in late 2010, both of which have been designed by S&P Architects and delivered by Willmott Dixon. The Heworth centre will also include a FlowRider.

An £8m revamp of Gateshead Leisure Centre was unveiled earlier this year. The full programme is to be complete by spring 2011. Gateshead Council cabinet member for health Mary Foy said: "Residents are not only going to be offered the very latest in leisure facilities and equipment at Blaydon, they will also have access to excellent healthcare services conveniently located in the same building."

Source: sportsmanagement.co.uk