A brand-new era of health and wellbeing is set to begin in Altrincham as the town centre’s state-of-the-art leisure facility prepares to open its doors.

On Oakfield Road in the heart of the town centre, the completion of move Altrincham, supported by Sport England, marks a major milestone in Trafford Council’s commitment to delivering modern, inclusive and sustainable leisure services.

A phased reopening begins on Tuesday 26 August for the ambitious £20m revamp.

The centre includes a 25m swimming pool, 20m learner pool, pool pod to improve accessibility, combined lobby area with pool viewing, wet changing village and inclusive facilities such as a Changing Places toilet for people with profound disabilities, a first for the town centre.

There will be a wellness assessment room, an enlarged fitness suite, two flexible studio spaces, an immersive indoor cycle studio, a four-court sports hall and a gymnastics hub as well as changing areas, staff rooms and offices.

The new Cove Spa boasts a vitality pool, sensory showers, an ice fountain and luxurious saunas and steam rooms. MOST Bakery will offer balanced and healthy, hot and cold family-oriented food and drink seven days a week.

The building, opening later than expected due to the challenges of transforming the 50-year-old building, has an active travel hub, plus air source heat pumps and solar panels – removing gas completely – thanks to over £2m of funding from the Public Sector Decarbonisation fund via Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

Jo Cherrett, Chief Executive Officer of Trafford Leisure, a community interest company wholly owned by the Council said: “move Altrincham will provide our community with a welcoming, safe place where there truly is something for everyone – from babies through to older adults, and everyone in between. Our new Cove Spa adds a real treat to the experience.

“The benefits of being active are huge. A healthy lifestyle is the foundation to a happy life, and this redevelopment, along with the expert support of our staff, will inspire and support people to move more every day.”

Cllr Eve Parker, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Arts, Culture and Heritage, said: “We are delighted to present this fantastic facility to the Altrincham community and cannot wait to throw open the doors and welcome everyone in.

“move Altrincham supports the Council’s priorities to address climate change as well as to facilitate sports for all, and healthy and independent lives. We want people of all ages and abilities in our borough to be as fit and active as they possibly can be, and this new centre will help us to get there.”

Residents are encouraged to register interest online, to receive get the latest updates and membership information from Trafford Leisure.