Ponteland Leisure Centre now open but with limited facilities due to tier three

Unfortunately, many facilities within the building will remain closed until Government restrictions are eased – with Northumberland being in the tier three Very High level.

However, Active Northumberland members and the wider public are able to access the six-lane swimming pool for lane swimming and the learner and children’s swimming lessons will also be running.

The 100-station state-of-the art gym with the latest Technogym equipment is also open.

The multi-million-pound sports centre, funded by Northumberland County Council, has been planned to cater for the whole community including the elderly, school groups, families, sports clubs and social groups.

To ensure social distancing is in place, numbers have to be limited so customers will be required to pre-book at www.activenorthumberland.org.uk/Booking-online.aspx or via the Active Northumberland app to secure their place.

Coun Jeff Watson, county council cabinet member for healthy lives, said: “The new Ponteland Leisure Centre offers some of the very best facilities in the North East with opportunities for fun, fitness and relaxation.

“We want residents to know that it is a facility that will welcome and support everyone – whatever their age. It is inclusive and accessible to all.

“While it is opening this week in a limited capacity, we very much look forward to a time in the not-too-distant future when it will be fully operational and enjoyed by the whole community.”

When the centre can open fully to the public, there will be the opportunity to enjoy a catch-up with friends at the new HIVE Café or let the kids burn off energy in the Clip 'n Climb facility or the Softplay area.

For those that fancy a bit of 'me time', the luxurious Tranquillity Spa should tick all the boxes, or you can have a drink with friends and watch live sport in the HIVE Sports Bar.

There are also outdoor sports fields, two multi-use games areas and a full size 3G pitch, which will be used by both the schools and the local community. The four-court sports hall with indoor cricket nets will provide opportunities for indoor sports activities.

For more information, go to www.activenorthumberland.org.uk/Centres/Ponteland-Leisure-Centre.aspx

Morpeth Riverside Leisure Centre is among the centres across the county that have re-opened today with the limited offering.