A newly updated leisure centre has been unveiled following 20 weeks and £3m of work.

The ribbon was cut at Loughton Leisure Centre on September 8 by Cllr Richard Bassett, chairman of Epping Forest District Council.

Before leading a tour of Loughton’s new facilities, Cllr Bassett paid tribute to the centre management and staff for keeping as much of the centre operational during the building works, and thanked users for their patience during the disruption.

The refurb brings new split-level gym facilities and multi-function movement studio spaces, a virtual spinning room, upgraded changing villages with new lockers, flooring and vanity units as well as better air conditioning.

The bulk of the project has been completed in 20 weeks with further work planned to the reception areas and heating and power units.

Cllr Helen Kane, portfolio holder for Leisure and Community Services, acting chief executive Derek McNab and mayor of Loughton, Stephen Murray, also attended the opening.

Cllr Kane said:“All of our leisure centres needed a makeover to keep them up to date and offering a welcoming environment for users.

"But in Waltham Abbey we had a wonderful opportunity to create a health and wellbeing hub in a new setting and I am really looking forward to seeing the finished project."

The centre is one of three in Epping Forest that is undergoing refurbishment, alongside a complete new build at Waltham Abbey which is being constructed on the old community centre site in Ninefields.

It is scheduled for completion in November.