The refurbishment includes proposals to expand the existing Momentum gym and increase the amount of fitness equipment from 27 to 65 stations. A new fitness and dance studio will also be built.

The existing children's soft play area will to be relocated, while the changing facilities and social areas will updated and the main synthetic sports pitch and tennis courts resurfaced.

Mayor of Ards, cllr Billy Montgomery, said: "Comber Leisure Centre needs to be brought up to date and this work will ensure local people have access to modern health and fitness facilities in attractive surroundings.

"The refurbishment also makes economic sense, as a completely remodelled centre will be much more appealing, generate more usage and, therefore, more income to offset the overall costs of running the centre."

Members will be able to access the facilities at nearby Ards Leisure Centre when Comber Leisure Centre closes for three months this autumn for construction works.

The outside pitch will be relayed next spring.