Work is getting underway on a major revamp of Wirral Sailing Centre in West Kirby.
Back in May, West Kirby Today exclusively revealed details and designs for the new look centre on our Facebook page.
As well as improvements to the catering facilities, there will be a new reception area, two further changing rooms, disability changing and office accommodation.
The new, fully wheelchair accessible, first floor will extend towards the lake and replace the current outdoor balcony and include a cafe.
Inside the existing building, a revamp of the first floor rooms has already started to provide additional changing rooms and a training room, while work on other changing rooms has already been completed.
Cabinet member for the environment, Cllr Phill Brightmore, said: “This is a landmark location and it’s vital that people understand this council is investing and not abandoning the assets our residents value.
“The West Kirby Marine Lake is of local, regional, national and international importance when it comes to water sports, but the ‘dry’ facilities are lagging someway behind.
“Many people have already referred to the venue as a great missed opportunity, but no longer. The newly revamped building will see something for everyone.
“In essence the new building will be a glass ‘sail’ over two stories. The new building aims to complement and acknowledge the sailing environment with careful design.”
The centre is popular with groups who sail on West Kirby’s Marine Lake, as well as walkers, bird watchers and the Friends of Hilbre. The aim is to bring them together and allow them to create a visitor point staffed by volunteers.
Cllr Brightmore said: “Last year the council bought a new sailing fleet for Wirral Sailing Centre and this shows our continued commitment to the centre.”
It is hoped the new building work will be finished in time for the 2019 peak water sports season.
The Sailing Centre is still operating as normal with a full programme of sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, power boating, paddle boarding and Hilbre Explorer boat trips.