Horwich’s new state-of-the-art £10m leisure centre has received the seal of approval from a local paralympian.
Rik Waddon, medallist in London 2012 and Beijing 2008, lives in Horwich and had a look around the new centre on Friday.
He said: “I think it’s an amazing facility. There is a lot of space, and the latest up to date equipment and technology. I’m sure a lot of people will enjoy the facility.”
The new leisure centre, on Church Street, features a 25-metre six lane swimming pool, a teaching pool, a 100-station gym, spin and dance studios, a multi-purpose room and a four court sports hall.
Work to the building officially completed on Friday (November 24), with the formal handover of the keys to Bolton Council for the new building.
The facilities are not open for use yet but a special sneak preview was arranged over the weekend for potential members to look around. All facilities are expected to be open for use from December 4.
The new building has taken just over a year to construct and it is part of a wider investment in Horwich including a new primary school and 3G pitch.
The centre has been jointly funded by Bolton Council and Bolton Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) who will also manage the facility.
Bolton Council’s Cabinet Member for Sport, Cllr John Byrne, said: "I am delighted that our residents in Horwich and the surrounding area have a brand new fantastic leisure centre.
“We would invite everyone, whatever their age and sport they enjoy, to take the opportunity to come and look around the centre – and use it.
“It will provide first class facilities and encourage people to pursue an active and healthy lifestyle. It is an exciting day for Horwich.”
Chair of BCLT, Dave Singleton, added: “We are delighted to have been able to work with the council to provide these fantastic facilities.”
Contractor Willmott Dixon has carried out the regeneration project.
Managing director of Willmott Dixon in the North, Anthony Dillon, said: “It’s a pleasure to have been involved in the creation of Horwich Leisure Centre, providing cutting edge sporting facilities for the local community to enjoy.”