FITNESS fanatics are set to benefit from a £500,000 project to refurbish Droitwich leisure centre.

It was agreed to set aside the cash at a recent meeting of Wychavon District Council executive board.

The Briar Mill complex, comprises an air-conditioned gymnasium, large and small sports halls, squash courts, sauna and steam room and a caf.

It is owned by the council and run by Wychavon Leisure and the improvements would involve making the existing gym even bigger and building a large dance studio. The reception area and car park are also set to be revamped.

It comes as the district council recently revealed its proposals to the town council to turn the Droitwich Lido into a mini seaside complex.

"Wychavon is pleased to make another investment to improve and extend affordable leisure facilities as part of its commitment to encouraging healthier communities," said Paul Middlebrough, councillor in charge of leisure.

"The package will not only provide a better service for existing customers but it will also attract more people to use the fitness facility," Mr Middlebrough said.

The leisure centre - which has 10,000 visits a week - had a new pool 10 years ago, a new health suite in 2003 and upgraded its changing rooms about four years ago.

At the meeting, the executive board also requested detailed proposals for a learner pool at the centre are brought forward for consideration in October.

Droitwich pensioner Keith Harrison, of Burrish Street, said he was delighted with the news.

"Basically anything they can do to improve anything in terms of sport and leisure for both the young and elderly is extremely good," he added.

The decision on whether to build another pool at the leisure centre was originally postponed in December 2004 to give councillors chance to fully assess plans to save the town's Lido.

Wychavon District Council is considering creating a larger swimming pool and improving gym facilities at the Briar Mill-based centre.