Social enterprise Brio Leisure has agreed plans to pump £2.2m (US$2.8m, €2.6m) into Neston Recreation Centre in Cheshire, with Sport England providing more than 20 per cent of the funding.

The design of the facility includes a new frontage and reception, as well as new changing rooms, a gym and dedicated areas for fitness classes.

It is the first major investment to the building, which opened in March 1974 as a joint-use centre for the community and Neston High School.

Investment have been approved by Brio Leisure and Cheshire West and Chester Council, which owns the building. Sport England is providing £500,000 (US$639,800, €597,700) towards the project.

A planning application will be submitted shortly with the aim to start work in the summer. Completion is planned for spring 2018.

Anthony Annakin-Smith, Brio Leisure chairman, said: “The new facilities will considerably enhance the enjoyment of Neston Rec for our many users and make it a much more attractive place to visit for them and for newcomers. The investment underpins Brio’s commitment to supporting fitness, fun and health for the whole community.”

Charles Johnston, Sport England's property director, said: “Thankfully as a nation we are becoming more active. Meeting this demand can be challenging, but thanks to £500,000 of National Lottery funding we can help Neston Recreation Centre improve their facilities so even more people can enjoy a first rate experience of being active.”