Prudhoe Waterworld is set to undergo a £1.6 million refurbishment.

The county council-funded scheme will see improvements to facilities including a new wet changing area with showers, toilets, cubicles, lockers, a vanity area, and lighting.

The exit from the water flume will be improved, and a new external ramp will be installed to improve accessibility.

The full designs for the upgrade have been drawn up, and the tender process is almost complete.

The council's cabinet is being recommended to approve the appointment of the contractor who will carry out the work.

Subject to cabinet approval, the contractors are expected to be appointed in October, with work set to begin within weeks and be completed by March 2025.

Gordon Stewart, local ward councillor, said: “The centre is really popular and well-run, attracting thousands of visits each week but parts of the building are looking tired and in need of modernisation.

“This refurbishment work willbreathe new life into the centre and provide a modern and improved experience for both visitors and the local community.”

Jeff Watson, Northumberland County councillor cabinet member with responsibility for healthy lives, said: "Prudhoe Waterworld is a focal point for the community and an extremely important facility for people to visit to improve or maintain their health and well-being.

"We are going to push ahead to get this refurbishment work done as quickly as possible, so the centre becomes a modern, better equipped, and attractive place for customers to visit."

Prudhoe Waterworld was opened in 1990 by Tynedale District Council.