THE Sports Centre, in Basingstoke’s Festival Place has yet again qualified for the Investors in People training and development award.

The centre, which employs 170 full-time and part-time staff, is owned and managed by a charity, Basingstoke and District Sports Trust.

It has held the award for 14 years and was the first facility of its kind in the county to qualify in 1997.

Chief executive Steve Combes said: “This is great news for us. The staff have worked really hard to deliver our business plan and provide a great service to our customers, and this has been recognised by the investors’ assessor.”

The award coincides with a £350,000 investment in the centre. This includes a redevelopment of the gym facilities with the installation of new equipment, expanding the area available for free weights, and remodelling the lower floor, making better use of space.

“The response from customers has been very positive,” said Steve. “A new feature light display will be fitted before Christmas, plus an upgrade to the entertainment system.

“The overall result is breathtaking, providing first-class facilities that compete with the very best in the region.”

Further developments planned at the Sports Centre include redeveloping the reception area and re-fitting the Sports Hall and squash courts.