This week the council’s cabinet agreed to allocate funding to refurbish Prudhoe Waterworld and remodel internal parts of the building to improve existing facilities. 
 

Initial plans that are being explored include refreshing the pool area, including an upgrade to the water flume and a new changing area with new lockers, cubicles, vanity area and lighting. 
 

There will be some new glazing, tiling and decoration to give the building a fresh feel. 
 

Measures to improve accessibility for those who are less mobile will also be reviewed as part of the design. 

Full designs will now be worked up so that accurate costings can be finalised and contractors appointed.  
 

Prudhoe Waterworld was opened in 1990 by Tynedale District Council. It features a main pool, wave pool, gym, fitness studio, softplay and a café. 

It is managed and operated by Active Northumberland on behalf of the county council. 
 

In 2016/2017 the gym and studio areas were refurbished and the pool plant that runs and heats the pool has also recently been upgraded with more energy efficient and environmentally friendly equipment. 
 

Local county councillor Gordon Stewart welcomed the investment. He said:  

“The leisure centre is an extremely important facility for the health and well-being of the town and wider community. It attracts in the region of 140,000 visits a year from members and non-members so it is a really popular and well-run centre, but it is definitely in need of some modernisation. 
 

“This is really great news and will make the centre a modern, better equipped, and attractive place for customers.” 

Over recent years Northumberland County Council committed to its biggest ever spend on sports and leisure facilities committing £65m to build new centres in Morpeth, Berwick and Ponteland and breathing new life into facilities in Blyth, Newbiggin and Hexham. 

 
Northumberland County Councillor Jeff Watson. Cabinet member for promoting healthy lives added: 

“The council has been investing in leisure centres right across the county so that our residents have accessible, enjoyable and modern facilities.  

“This refurbishment and upgrade work will breathe new life into the centre at Prudhoe and provide an improved experience for the local community.”