The Orchard Leisure Centre in Armagh, Northern Ireland, is to undergo a £5m refurbishment.

The city council will fund the scheme, which will see a full upgrade of all parts of the building, particularly focussing on the swimming pool and changing areas, as well as the expansion of the fitness suite and soft-play area. The reception and main hall will also be improved.

Armagh city and district mayor, William Irwin, said: “The current facility, first opened in the late 1960s, has served the community well and is one of the best attended leisure centres in Northern Ireland. However, the council recognises the Orchard Leisure Centre needs a major upgrade to meet the expectations of our customers.”

The council has been debating the future of the centre since 2002 and its first preference was to build a new facility. However, an appropriate site could not be found.

Work will begin in June 2007 and is expected to be completed by January 2009.

During construction, the fitness suite will and exercise classes will move to Ardmore Recreation Centre, while the sports hall activities will be held at the Keady Recreation Centre. Details: www.armagh.gov.uk