See how Northgate Arena, Chester has been transformed following £600k revamp

Northgate Arena is one of eight centres run by Brio Leisure. Its recent £600,000 refurbishment, funded by Cheshire West and Chester Council and delivered by Qwest, has contributed to a fresh new look in the main entrance and reception, a ground floor viewing area into the sports hall and a brand-new café and servery.

What Northgate Arena looked like before and after the first phase of its transformation.

This first stage of renovations for Northgate Arena has created a modern, fit-for-purpose facility which will help to support communities return to leisure and wellbeing activities.

Elly McFahn, managing director of Brio Leisure, said: "Northgate Arena has always been an iconic building in Chester, and for a long time now we have been working towards full upgrade and investment.

What Northgate Arena looked like before and after the first phase of its transformation.

"This work started pre-Covid with a range of ‘behind the scenes’ underpinning works to the plant and mechanical and electrical systems throughout 2019.

"Whilst it wouldn't have been obvious to customers that this work was going on, it was critical to the building's longer term sustainability.

"Brio and the council used the forced closure periods brought about by lockdowns during the coronavirus pandemic as effectively as possible to put in place a £600k first phase investment.

"This has included a completely revamped main entrance foyer, which now opens up into the café, and provides ground floor visibility of the sports hall.

What Northgate Arena looked like before and after the first phase of its transformation.

"Along with complete redecoration, new lighting, and a digital interactive screen, this area now forms the first part of a phased programme of whole site investment.

"The next phase will be to upgrade the pool hall, changing rooms, and toilets, as well as the first-floor gym, fitness spaces and changing areas.

"This next phase is significantly more complex, and plans are being developed to consider how the site could remain flexibly in use whilst the works are carried out."

What Northgate Arena looked like before and after the first phase of its transformation.

Councillor Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "This hugely exciting step will complement the continuing development and improvements being delivered in Chester to support the local area.

"Supporting our residents to look after their health and wellbeing is now more important than ever.

"This programme of refurbishments will ensure that Northgate Arena can deliver accessible, affordable leisure, health and wellbeing services, tailored to the needs of local people and support and improve the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities across our borough."