Construction of Hartlepool’s new leisure centre has reached an “exciting new milestone” as the fitting out of the premises enters its final stage.

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub, at The Waterfront, on Hartlepool Marina, is shortly set to replace the Mill House Leisure Centre.

To mark the latest milestone, a time capsule was buried within Highlight’s grounds at a ceremony.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, the leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub is going to have a truly transformative effect on our town.

Hartlepool Borough Council leader Councillor Pamela Hargreaves and David Wingfield, from Highlight principal contractor Wates, prepare to bury a time capsule near the new leisure centre.

placeholder image — Hartlepool Borough Council leader Councillor Pamela Hargreaves and David Wingfield, from Highlight principal contractor Wates, prepare to bury a time capsule near the new leisure centre.

"It will open up incredible opportunities for people of all ages to lead healthier, happier lives.

"It represents a major investment in our future and it will have a profound impact on the wellbeing, confidence, and pride of our community for many years to come.

“This is a truly exciting milestone. It demonstrates our ambition, our energy and our determination to build a stronger, more active and healthier Hartlepool, a place where

everyone can thrive.

The time capsule buried within Highlight’s grounds marks the handover of the premises from principal contractor Wates.

It includes a Tall Ships 2023 T-shirt, photos of the Mill House and memories shared by Peter and Elizabeth Richardson, who met at the current leisure centre and have been together for 54 years.

It also features materials provided by the family of the late Betty Sands, the beloved former president of Hartlepool Swimming Club, who taught generations of local residents.

Costing up to £34.6m, Highlight is now expected to open in the summer.

Its facilities will include three swimming pools, an 100-station gym, two fitness studios, active and soft play areas as well as party, function and meeting rooms.

Highlight is being funded by Hartlepool Borough Council, Tees Valley Combined Authority and Sport England.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “People right across our region deserve to have access to the very best, state-of-the-art sports facilities and Highlight stands as a shining example of how our investment is making that ambition a reality in Hartlepool.

“This is about more than just bricks and mortar, and is part of our broader work to regenerate sites across the town."