A leisure centre is due to get a £1.6 million refurbishment.

Prudhoe Waterworld will see the pool area undergo a refresh as part of the county council-funded scheme, with work starting on October 21.

The centre will remain open while work is underway, however, the pool is closed from Monday (October 14) and is being drained to allow for the work to be carried out safely.

The pool area will be closed until Spring 2025.

The refurbishment will see a new changing area with showers, toilets, cubicles, lockers, and lighting installed.

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

Local ward councillor Gordon Stewart said: "It’s fantastic that the centre is to have this investment into it.

"Although it is necessary for the pool and changing area to be closed to the public, in just a few short months it will be transformed, refreshed, and modernised for the people of Prudhoe and beyond to enjoy."

Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson, cabinet member with responsibility for healthy lives, said: "One of the main aims of the council is to provide great places to help people to be active and have fun.

"Prudhoe Waterworld attracts thousands of visitors each week, but parts of the building are in need of modernisation.

"This summer we installed a fantastic new wildlife-themed soft play at the centre which is proving very popular with young families.

"Contractors will now be working over the winter when the pool is quieter on the wet area of the centre with the work due to be completed and the pool area re-opened to the public in spring 2025."

Prudhoe Waterworld was opened in 1990 by Tynedale District Council.

It includes a main pool, wave pool, gym, fitness studio, soft play, and a café.

It is managed and operated by Places Leisure on behalf of Northumberland County Council.

The rest of the centre, including the new wildlife-themed soft play, will remain open while the work is carried out.