WORK on the hotly anticipated £8.4m state-of-the-art Vale Health and Wellbeing Centre in Pewsey got underway this week.

Rydon Construction, who were awarded the contract to transform the former leisure centre, are now hard at work to build a brand new four lane 25 metre swimming pool as well as fitness suite, café, community space and other leisure facilities, ready for the summer of 2018.

John Thomson, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing centres, said: "Over the coming months, people will see work progressing to transform this site into a new community hub which will provide a range of facilities for all ages and be a focal point for the area.

"The local community has been key in making this new centre a reality and I am very grateful for their involvement in the design to ensure that when the centre opens for business next year, it will reflect the needs of the local community.

"I am confident that this major investment will deliver a centre that will be extremely well used by local residents and will encourage more people to get active and get involved in community events, clubs and activities.

"We have seen a huge increase in usage and participation in other new health and wellbeing centres in Corsham, Tisbury and Salisbury."

An indoor skate park where people can skateboard, scoot and BMX, on top of the existing multi-use games area, will also be provided.

Paul Barber, South West Regional Director, Rydon Construction, added: "Having successfully delivered two health and wellbeing centres for Wiltshire, we are delighted to be working on this innovative facility for Pewsey that will bring our expertise in the sector to help shape and improve people’s lives in their local community.

"We look forward to working with our local supplier and trade partners and will make every effort to be a considerate neighbour throughout the duration of work."

While the work is ongoing, former leisure centre users can access the fitness suite and exercise classes at SSI House, Fordbrook Business Centre, along Marlborough Road.

To use facilities at other leisure centres visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/leisure