Cash boost for revamp of ex-Gateshead Council leisure centres
Four former council-run leisure centres are said to become more family friendly and accessible, following a programme of investment.Blaydon, Dunston, and Heworth leisure centres, along with Gateshead International Stadium, were recently taken over by charitable social enterprise group GLL.It has now allocated £750,000 to replace health and fitness equipment in the gyms at the four centres with state-of-the-art machines. It will also be working with the council to operate six community tennis courts, which the authority is currently refurbishing.
GLL said it was putting in place measures to ensure its facilities were inclusive and accessible to everyone, and there would be specially designed equipment to support those with disabilities.A multi-sensory lighting system being introduced at Dunston Leisure Centre will cater to children with sensory processing needs. The existing underused squash courts at that site will become a multi-functional space for community activities, health programmes and school holiday clubs.
Scott Holmes, from GLL, said: "Our overarching aim is to improve the health and happiness of communities by investing in facilities and encouraging participation in activities."We will continue to work in partnership with Gateshead Council to introduce additional community-led programmes."
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