A new health and fitness centre has opened to the public at the Abbey Leisure Centre in Selby, North Yorkshire, following the completion of a £1.1m project to transform the venue.

The development of the Profiles Health and Fitness Centre was led by Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust (WLCT), which has been selected by Selby District Council (SDC) to operate the centre. At the heart of the new 180sq m (1,938sq ft) facility is a 75-station gym equipped by Technogym, as well as a 70sq m (753sq ft) dance studio, a spinning studio, and a consultation room and health suite.

Gillian Ivey, chair of SDC's social board, said: "This new arrangement has facilitated investment in the services at Abbey Leisure Centre, which will benefit the whole community. "The new deal also represents a significant long-term saving for the council, helping us to deliver better services at less cost. As such, this work supports two of Selby District Council's long-term goals: supporting healthier communities and making better use of resources."

WLCT leisure services manager Bob Lancaster added: "After much hard work we are delighted our members will have access to some of the most specialised fitness equipment available in the industry."