AN open evening is being held for residents to find out more about the multi-million pound refurbishment of Howe Bridge Sports Centre.

The session will provide information and give people the chance to ask questions about the development which the council says will transform the site into a 'modern, vibrant, family-focused facility'.

The refurbished centre will combine traditional sports facilities with a high quality health and fitness suite and innovative leisure products including adventure climbing, an indoor extreme skate and BMX park and adventure play facilities.

Deputy mayor and ward Clr Susan Loudon said: “This is a fantastic scheme that will bring huge benefits to the Atherton community and surrounding area providing people with access to quality sports and health facilities to keep them active and healthy.

"I’d encourage anyone who wants to find out more about what’s happening at the site to come along to this information evening.”

The evening is being held at the centre on Eckersley Fold Lane, Atherton, on September 23 from 6pm until 8pm.

The new health and fitness suite will include an 80-station gym, sauna and steam room, a group cycling studio, a studio for group fitness and new changing rooms.

Other changes in the plan include the centre’s reception area being opened up, enhanced catering and vending facilities installed and a high quality, synthetic football and rugby-compliant pitch created.

As part of the new 'deal' for leisure, Wigan Council will invest £2.4 million into the project while WLCT, as leisure partners, will project manage the refurbishment and continue to manage the site thereafter. WLCT will also be exploring other external funding opportunities for the scheme.

Work on the scheme is due to begin in December 2014 and will be completed by summer 2015. Residents and centre users will be kept up to date with the developments.

For more information, visit wlct.org/wigan.