Ashby's Hood Park Leisure Centre has been given the green light to undergo a facelift in the final phase of a £1.2m refurbishment of the facility.

A planning application for external alterations and improvements to the façade of the North Street centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with North West Leicestershire District Council, has been approved by North West Leicestershire District Council.

The works include refurbishing the entrance canopy, re-cladding the existing entrance frontage - to harmonise with Everyone Active's branding and corporate colours - and re-rendering.

But the leisure facility is currently closed to the public due to the Coronavirus crisis.

A letter submitted on behalf of the applicant states: "The building is finished in a combination of multi-brown brick and white render, however, it is tired in appearance and does not positively contribute to the character of the surrounding built environment.

"The proposed refurbished entrance frontage and rendering of the western elevation, will rejuvenate the building and inject new life into the facility.

"The materials pallet has been carefully considered and is reflective of Everyone Active's corporate colours.

"This ensures that the building achieves a distinct identity, whilst respecting the character of the site and its surroundings.

"The works are also representative of the significant investment in the building and will result in a vastly improved facility, which reflects the needs of current and future generations.

"The proposed works will improve desirability of the facility and, therefore, will improve the quality of the experience of the centre, increase demand and, resultantly, contribute to the improvement of the health and wellbeing of the local community."

In a separate application, the centre has also been given the go-ahead for two externally illuminated signs, four non-illuminated signs and four illuminated lightbox signs.

In February, work was completed on the penultimate phase of the redevelopment including a multi-purpose activity room, spin studio, new reception foyer with a social area overlooking the centre's historic lido and updated changing facilities providing greater access and capacity. The sports hall was also refurbished.