The major refurbishment and extension programme at the Orchard Leisure Centre, Co. Armagh, is progressing well with the complex now on schedule to re-open in January 2009.

The £5m refurbishment programme will see a significant improvement in all the facilities at the site with particular emphasis on those most frequently used and the ancillary facilities such as changing areas and the cafeteria area.

The Visions Fitness Suite will be transformed. A purpose-built extension will house a new strength/conditioning area, whilst the fitness suite will be fitted out with new state of the art treadmills, rowers, bicycles, cross trainers and weights equipment.

All this is complemented by extra air conditioning, large LCD TV’s, cardio theatre, satellite TV and new larger changing areas.

The relaxation suite will offer a steam room, two spa pools, a larger sauna, extensive social area and easy pool access.

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Membership packages will include use of the relaxation and fitness suite and all activity classes.

Both pools are being total refurbished with new tiling, décor, lighting, sound system and a new spectator gallery. The pool area will be facilitated with a new extensive village changing with shower and drying areas suitable for families, with sufficient group changing areas also available. There are also extensive new changing areas for people with disabilities.

Gulliver’s Island soft play will also be extended and new features installed.

The cafeteria area is being revamped and the entrance/reception is being extended to offer a spacious welcoming experience to all visitors, including a major social area where everyone will be able to relax watch TV or have a cup of coffee.

Further complementing these developments are the extension of the dance studio (with new sound system) and the installation of the latest sports specific flooring in the main sports hall which is suitable for all major indoor sports.

Eamonn Kelly, Leisure Facilities Manager said: "A lot of the capital expenditure on the Orchard Leisure Centre site had to be directed towards health and safety issues and updating the building so it complies with recent legislation.

"However with the support of the Councillors we have been able to ensure that users will be well and truly wowed when they first use the centre.

"The new facilities and programmes - including special offers and price concessions to those on state benefits and over 60’s – will provide local residents with the ultimate leisure experience."

(GK)