A major programme of modernisation work on the changing facilities at Thornbury Leisure Centre has been completed opened to the public from Friday 1 July.

The refurbishment represents a £250,000 investment by South Gloucestershire Council and includes a full makeover of the male and female changing rooms with new finishings, lockers and cubicles.

A new area has been created in each changing room to provide for those playing dry sports or for larger groups to use.

There are also significant improvements for disabled users, including ceiling hoists and electrical changing benches.

Swindon-based contractors Beard brought the project in a week and a half early and within budget and, along with staff at Thornbury Leisure Centre, were able to keep disruption to a minimum so that the facilities could still be used during the work.

James Hunt, Executive Member Communities, said: "We are delighted to be investing in facilities in Thornbury for the benefit of our local residents.

"Thornbury Leisure Centre delivers a great service for the local community and we hope that residents enjoy the facilities for many years to come."

Craig Smart, Operations Director at Thornbury Leisure Centre, said: "We are very pleased to be able to open these changing rooms on time and ahead of the busy summer holiday period.

"We are also particularly happy with the way the contractors and Centre staff members have brought this project to a satisfactory close with minimum disruption to the everyday running of services."