New facilities at Bell’s Sports Centre in Perth are ready to be revealed this week.
A refurbishment worth £750,000 has been ongoing in recent weeks, including new gym equipment and fitness studios.
The Courier takes a look at the new facilities ahead of their opening on Saturday.
More than 100 pieces of gym equipment, supplied by Matrix, have been moved into the former coaching hall.
Some equipment has come from the nearby Rodney sports centre on Dundee Road and has never been seen before in a sports venue of this type.
The move caused some controversy as Perth and Kinross Council is now considering selling the Rodney.
The layout of the gym has been carefully planned to allow something for all levels and abilities and to let gym goers complete their workout whilst classes are ongoing.
There is also going to be three new studios – a dedicated cycle studio, a mind and body studio and a fitness studio, all of which will offer more variety of fitness classes both virtually and in person.
Staff at Live Active Leisure, who oversees the running of sports and leisure facilities in Perth and Kinross, say they are excited by the project.
Gary Watson, director of operational services at Live Active Leisure, said: “Bell’s Sports Centre is an iconic building with an outstanding sporting legacy.
“This project rejuvenates the customer offer and provides outstanding fitness facilities to complement and integrate with the wide range of sports and events that are delivered in the venue’s domed main arena and squash courts and the wider offer on the North Inch.
“This investment in Bell’s Sports Centre will deliver significant health benefits to the residents of Perth & Kinross and supports our vision to be the provider of choice for everyone to live an active lifestyle.
“I am delighted that we continue to adapt to changes in trends and the growing needs of everyone in our community.
“We are really excited to welcome everyone this weekend and beyond, to experience what is without a doubt a fantastic new development in Perth city.”
There will be an open weekend on Saturday and Sunday at Bell’s to allow people to see the new facilities for themselves.
Gym-goers and fitness fans will have lots on offer, including tours, trying out the new gym equipment and taking part in taster classes.
On Saturday between 10am and 1pm, people will be able to test ride one of the all ability bikes for free.
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