DUDLEY'S new £18million Duncan Edwards leisure centre is set to open to the public before the end of the month, council chiefs have confirmed.

The flagship centre, named after the borough’s most famous sporting son, will officially open its doors on Monday January 24.

Work has been continuing at pace, despite the pandemic, and is now almost complete.

Visitors to the new centre, in Constitution Hill, can expect a 25-metre, eight-lane swimming pool and a teaching pool with spectator area, plus a four-court sports hall for indoor football, badminton and more.

The complex will also include a 100-station gym and fitness suite, two group exercise studios including a state-of-the-art immersive cycle studio – the first in the Black Country.

There’s also a soft play area, café, party room, sauna and power-assisted gym equipment which will be beneficial for people recovering from injury, living with long-term health conditions or with limited mobility.

Councillor Simon Phipps, Dudley Council's cabinet member responsible for leisure centres, said: "I am delighted we have been able to produce such an outstanding leisure facility – the first in the borough for a generation. The facilities it boasts are second to none and I am sure new and existing visitors to our leisure centres will be overwhelmed with what we have to offer.

"We have membership offers available that will be suitable for everyone, whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned gym-goer or swimmer. Our staff are friendly and welcoming and will make everyone feel comfortable during their first visit."

The council is also offering a 12 months of membership for the price of 10 at £320, or 90p a day.

Millions of pounds have also been spent on revamping Stourbridge's Crystal Leisure Centre and Halesowen Leisure Centre as part of a massive spend on leisure facilities.