IT’S the world-class facility set to inspire a new generation of sporting stars.

The new-look Waterside Farm Leisure Centre was finally reopened to the public on Friday after a £5.4million revamp to bring it into the 21st Century.

The centre, in Somnes Avenue, Canvey, built in the 1970s, was barely recognisable after the 15- month transformation. Improvements include:

- A glass-fronted, open-plan reception area, complete with a new coffee and juice bar lounge

- Remodelled swimming pools with a new roof, walkways and heating system

- Refurbished spin studio rooms and fitness studios

- Remodelled changing rooms with a sauna and steam room

- New conference and community space

- State-of-the-art fitness suite which has expanded to include an extra studio

- A new, all-weather sports pitch

- A completely redecorated interior and exterior.

It is hoped the revamp will encourage more people in the borough to get fit and active and provide an ideal facility for the next generation of world-class athletes.

Canvey has an excellent history of producing high-quality sporting icons, including Olympian and world champion decathlete Dean Macey, and rising running star Jessica Judd.

Pam Challis, leader of Castle Point Council, which owns the centre, said: “It really does have that wow factor now.

“I think people will just walk in and think, ‘gosh this is amazing’.

“I have to say I never expected it to look like this. You see the plans and you know what’s happening, but until you see it for yourself, you don’t realise how good it will be.

“We are so pleased to be able to deliver this for our residents on budget and on time. It will be of such a huge benefit to the whole community. Being an Olympic borough has undoubtedly helped give organisations an incentive to invest and, hopefully, this facility will help any future athletes coming through the ranks.”

High-flying dignitaries from across the borough came together to marvel at the new leisure centre which promises to serve Castle Point for another 25 years.

The work was carried out by contractor Morgan Sindall, which built Basildon Sporting Village.