A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marked the completion of Brio Northgate's £11 million refurbishment.

Guests at the event on Thursday (6 August) included the Lord Mayor of Chester, representatives from Cheshire West and Chester Council, Brio colleagues and community partners.

Members of former Brio chair David Woods' family also attended, as a community room was unveiled in his honour.

David Woods played a key role in supporting the redevelopment project and worked closely with Council colleagues to develop the vision for the scheme and secure initial funding needed to bring the ambitious plans to life.

David served as Chair of Brio from October 2019 until August 2022 when he stepped down due to ill health. He played a key role in supporting the redevelopment, working with council colleagues to develop the vision for the scheme and secure initial funding.

He served as Brio chair from October 2019 until August 2022, when he stepped down due to ill health.

The refurbishment, part of Chester's One City Plan, included enhanced customer spaces, improved accessibility and modernised facilities.

Brio chair Mark Bayley-Smyth said the investment had transformed the facility into a modern and accessible space supporting health and wellbeing across the area.

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He said: "It is particularly special that we can recognise David Woods' incredible contribution by naming the Community Room in his honour.

"David cared deeply about Brio, our employees, and the communities we support, and his leadership played an important role in securing Brio Northgate's future. This dedication is a fitting tribute to someone who made such a lasting impact on our organisation."

Councillor Adam Langan said the investment would help provide health and wellbeing facilities for residents across the borough.

Councillor Adam Langan said: "Brio Northgate is a much-loved facility at the heart of our community, and this £11 million investment represents our commitment to providing high-quality leisure, health and wellbeing facilities that help people stay active, healthy and connected.

"The transformation of Brio Northgate has been a fantastic example of partnership working between Cheshire West and Chester Council, Brio and everyone involved in delivering this ambitious project."