GYM-users in Ponteland are in for a treat thanks to a dramatic £104,000 makeover at Ponteland Leisure Centre.

Following the closure of the centre’s gym for a week from September 26, the facilities have been upgraded with new fitness equipment and fresh decor, as well as new flooring in parts of the centre.

The 20-year-old machines previously in use have been replaced with 55 pieces of Technogym equipment, including 21 cardio machines, 13 resistance machines, six free weight machines and more than 2800kg of free weights, which are spread over two rooms in the centre.

There are also two new skill mills for resistance running and an Omnia station, which features adjustable weights and resistance attachments, including a ‘landmine’ medicine ball, gymnastic ring and battle ropes.

Acting centre manager Helen Mason said: “The gym and weights room have been completely transformed to better meet the expectations of modern gym users.

“I’m delighted with the results and our customers are too.

“The equipment we have bought is stylish, modern, and dynamic to work with.

“It’s the same standard you would expect to find in prestigious gyms and fitness centres up and down the country.

“What makes us different from other local gyms is the number of stations, the floor space and the range of kit which is now available.

“I’m pretty sure we have a piece of kit to work every muscle in the body.”

Centre user Andrew Hindmarsh said: “The gym at Ponteland Leisure Centre, although functional, was looking tired and was not a motivational place to train in.

“Since its refurbishment, it now looks and feels great. It is bright and a nice space to be in.”

The revamp is part of a £40m programme of leisure improvements across the whole of the county rolled out by Northumberland County Council and Active Northumberland.