OFFICIALS gave visitors the chance to tour Horwich Leisure Centre — which is nearing completion.

People were showed the new facilities at the £10million building, including the swimming pool, the 500sqm fitness suite, the changing rooms and the sports hall.

The centre, constructed by Willmott Dixon, is due to open as soon as the electrics have been sorted by Electricity North West, which was due to visit today.

Jon Gorton, partnership development manager at Bolton Community Leisure Trust, said: "We are ready to get all the finishing touches in. Willmott Dixon has worked very hard during the process and will continue to as speedily as possible.

"In essence, this is a modern building that is energy efficient and it is going to be fit to use for many years and decades to come."

As well as Mr Gorton, Cllrs Ann Cunliffe and Mike Jarvis also attended the tour along with Matthew Littlewood from Willmott Dixon.

The tour came after residents voiced uncertainty when it was revealed the funding for the health centre had been delayed, pushing back the demolition of the old leisure centre.

But Mr Gorton said an announcement about the progress of the health centre would be coming shortly.

He said: "The whole masterplan has always been that it is a health and wellbeing hub in the heart of Horwich.

"Work on the 3G pitch is due to start a week on Monday. While it might have taken us two and a half years, you are going to see the whole of Old Station Park completely transformed.

"The vision we have always had is that this is a complete family activity site. It's changing people's lives. That's what it is all about."

As well as the two pools, the gym and the main sports hall, the centre also has two studio rooms which could be used for a variety of functions and activities.

Cllr Ann Cunliffe, Horwich and Blackrod ward, said: "It's absolutely fantastic and I am really enjoying being one of the first people to see it.

"I can visualise the complete end result now. From the car park being there to that is just magnificent."