Plans to modernise Halesowen leisure centre have been approved as part of a multi-million pound upgrade of centres across Dudley borough.

Halesowen leisure centre has been earmarked for a range of improvements to the gym, as well as a new children’s play area. A planning application was submitted earlier this year for the Pool Road site and has now been approved.

At the same time, there will be substantial improvements to Crystal Leisure Centre which includes pool improvements and a revamp of the changing rooms. Work will go ahead and there is no need for a planning application.

It comes as work is well underway on a new leisure centre at Constitution Hill in Dudley. Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member responsible for leisure centres, said:

"This is fantastic news and another step towards our commitment to creating first class leisure facilities. I am delighted with the progress we have made on this project.

"When complete people visiting all of our leisure centres will have the facilities they deserve. The work at Halesowen will start in March next year and is expected to be completed by March 2022."

The centre will have a new look entrance, adventure play area and café. There will also be major changes to the swimming pool to cater for learner and advanced swimmers. The plans also include new ‘village style’ changing rooms, pool-side viewing area and a state-of-the-art fitness suite.

Work on Crystal will start in February next year and is expected to be complete by July the same year. Both Halesowen and Crystal leisure centres will have significant repairs carried out as part of the proposals. Work is well underway on the new £18.2million Dudley Leisure centre.

The new facility will include a 25 metre, eight-lane swimming pool and a teaching pool with spectator provision. There will be a four-court sports hall suitable for indoor football, badminton and more.

The investment will also include a 100-station gym and fitness suite, two group exercise studios for a wide range of exercise classes and an immersive cycle studio.

For families with younger children there will be a soft play area with catering facilities and a party room, and a café open to all users of the centre. And for those who want to relax after their workout session there’s set to be a sauna.

There will also be power-assisted gym equipment for specialist support which may be particularly beneficial for those recovering from injury, older customers and those living with long-term health conditions.