THE £4.2 million refurbishment of Selwyn Jones leisure centre will be “fantastic” for the people of Newton-le-Willows, a ward councillor has said.

The scheme, which was approved by St Helens Council’s cabinet on Wednesday, will transform the centre into a “modern, dynamic sports facility”.

Work on the full refurbishment of the centre will start after Christmas and is estimated to be phased over 46 weeks.

Newton-le-Willows councillor Seve Gomez-Aspron said the refurbishment is something ward members have lobbied for over a number of years.

He told the Local Democracy Reporter Service the announcement is “fantastic news”.

Cllr Gomez-Aspron said: “Having spoken to all the Newton-le-Willows councillors, the investment in Selwyn Jones leisure centre is fantastic news that we have lobbied hard for over a few years now.

“The centre was getting dated and run down, so this boost will be fantastic for people here.”

The council says it will “prudentially borrow” £3.9 million in order to finance the refurbishment of the centre.

A funding grant from Sports England of £335,000 has also been confirmed.

Cllr Derek Long, leader of the council, said: “Our £4.2 million investment demonstrates the commitment of St Helens Council to the people of Newton-le-Willows, Earlestown and Haydock”.