A HUGE revamp of Walton’s swimming pool has been officially unveiled.

The long-awaited £833,000 project to upgrade the facility at Bathhouse Meadow was completed recently.

It included building an extension for a brand new gym, creating new changing facilities and an improved entrance and reception area.

Tendring Council runs the pool – now renamed Walton Lifestyles - and put up the cash to secure its long term future.

It has now been officially opened with a special ceremony.

Council chairman Jayne Chapman carried out the ceremony.

She said: “Walton-on-the-Naze Lifestyles looks fantastic and is something we call all be truly proud of.

“On behalf of Tendring Council I would like to thank the architect Ingleton Wood and Rose Builders who have done a wonderful job with the refurbishment.”

She also praised council staff who worked with the contractors and managed to keep the facility open while the project was undertaken.

“I would also thank our customers for bearing with us whilst the building works were being carried out,” she added.

“I hope all those who use this facility, both young and old, will enjoy it and it continues to be well-loved long into the future.”

Council leisure boss Lynda McWilliams added: “This scheme has really brought the site up to the present day and will be an asset to both the council and the local community.”