A MAJOR makeover of the fitness suite at Huddersfield Sports Centre is to start.

The suite - which closed for the work today - is set to double in size and receive a much-needed makeover.

As part of its programme of upgrading and remodelling, Kirklees Active Leisure is improving the fitness suite to include the latest Technogym equipment, plasma screen televisions and an integrated lighting system.

The area will be redecorated and be more than twice its present size.

The work will also see the adjoining combat room converted. The current users of this room, including the martial arts clubs, will be rehoused in a new dedicated combat area where the old diving pool used to operate.

The pool shut more than four years ago because of safety fears over the 200,000 gallons of water.

Mark Dunstan, Kirklees Active Leisure regional manager, said: "We have consulted with all the users of the combat room before going ahead with this plan. All their comments and suggestions have been accepted.

"Although it will be a phased approach the users will have their own combat area within the pool hall.

"The former diving pit has been levelled off, mats put down and temporary ventilation installed.

"By April, we hope it will have a roof and its own ventilation system, a larger matted area than the current combat room and a storage area, which they previously did not have.

"We believe we are making the best use of space, so that we can happily accommodate all the fitness suite users and the combat room users.

"It is an exciting time of change for everyone and we are sure that this is the best way forward.

"Meanwhile, we would ask everyone to bear with us while the work is carried out."

The fitness suite and combat room are shut from today while the work is done. It is due to take four to six weeks.

In the meantime, all gym members of the fitness suite can use the Stadium Health and Fitness Club on Stadium Way, Leeds Road, Bradley Mills.

Casual pay and play users of the fitness suite can also use the club's facilities for the same rate they pay now.

But they must show an induction card from the sports centre.