Swimmers and families in Walton-on-the-Naze have received a New Year boost after improvement works at Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles leisure centre finished ahead of schedule.

Tendring District Council (TDC) has invested £28,000 to upgrade the wetside changing village, installing a brand new floor and carrying out cosmetic improvements to create a cleaner, brighter and more modern space for customers.

The pool, which had been due to reopen on Monday 5 January, welcomed swimmers back two days early after the project team completed the job faster than planned. The gym remained open throughout, and customers were offered use of the pools at Clacton Leisure Centre and Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles during the temporary closure.

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Councillor Mick Barry, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, said the early completion is welcome news for local families and regular swimmers.

"We're delighted to have completed these upgrades ahead of schedule, giving residents an earlier than planned chance to get back in the water," he said.

"These improvements will make a real difference to everyone who uses the centre, providing a fresher, brighter and more welcoming changing space.

"My thanks go to customers for their patience while the work took place, and to our staff and contractors for delivering the project so efficiently.

"This upgrade is part of our drive to improve leisure facilities across the district, ensuring residents have access to high-quality spaces that support healthy, active lifestyles – and I would like to thank customers for their patience during this revamp."

All fitness classes and Swim School lessons at Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles will now resume as planned.

The centre features an accessible gym with cardio, free weight and fixed weight equipment, supported by instructor advice and personal training options.

In the pool, customers can enjoy lane swimming, family sessions and water workout classes, while the 25-metre pool and 0.9-metre teaching pool support Swim School lessons for all ages.