A SUMMER of sport is beckoning with an athletics centre due to reopen following a major refurbishment.

Kings Park Athletics Centre, which received a £452,000 investment by BCP Council, is due to reopen to the general public for bookings from Monday, July 26.

The centre has seen several improvements including a brand-new running track, new pathways providing better accessibility for all users, enhancements to the long jump area and modern LED lighting – part of the council’s commitment to make its operations carbon neutral by 2030.

Councillor Mohan Iyengar, portfolio holder for leisure, said: “I’m delighted these enhancements are now complete and Kings Park Athletics Centre can open up once again. This facility is an important community asset with thousands of schoolchildren using this venue every year, as well as being the home of the Bournemouth Athletics Club, so I’m looking forward to welcoming them all back to use this enhanced facility.

“We want to help people lead active and healthy lifestyles, and the reopening of this facility reinforces this commitment.”

To celebrate the reopening, Bournemouth Athletics Club are holding a free family open day on Saturday, July 24, with a number of activities taking place including coaching demonstrations and a park run. Refreshments and a BBQ will be available, operated on site by Parks Cafés.

Tim Hughes, vice chair of Bournemouth Athletic Club said: “We’re delighted with the improvements that have been made at Kings Park Athletics Centre. Our members can’t wait to get back on the track and start using the world-class facilities to enable them to build on their fitness levels and compete across the country.

“This family open day is a celebration of athletics. People can come down to see the improvements that have been made, get involved in an event, enjoy a BBQ and watch some competitive athletes in action.”