A SPORTS centre handed over to the Trident organisation by Bradford Council a little more than two years ago has undergone an extensive overhaul.

The Parkside Centre in West Bowling needed extensive work when Bradford Council granted a 125-year lease on the property to social enterprise organisation Bradford Trident under an asset transfer scheme.

That allowed Bradford Trident to push ahead with a refurbishment scheme which was intended to establish the centre as a community hub for a range of activities in the future.

Work needed included upgrading the electrics, flooring and roof, along with attention to windows and changing rooms.

The work started earlier this year and is now complete, at a cost of £500,000 and means Bradford Trident will now be able to develop activities at the centre in future.

The organisation was keen to take over the centre because it is at the heart of the BD5 community where it has been providing services for the last 14 years.

Much of the cash reserves it has built up have now been invested in the building, which had previously been operated by the Council's youth service.

The landmark development has been marked with a celebration of cycling event, timed to capitalise on the Tour de France Grand Depart.

Bradford Trident chief executive officer, Mick Binns, said ‘ We are delighted to celebrate the relaunch of this valuable community asset, which will enable local people to engage in sport and physical activity for many years to come."

To mark the occasion, a cycle ride around West Bowling has taken place finishing at the Parkside Centre where refreshments, including smoothies made on a unique 'smoothie bike' were on offer.

Councillor Ralph Berry, the executive member for children's and young people's services, said: "I welcome the partnership between the Council and Bradford Trident and the increased usage which will benefit the local community."

Taj Salam, chairman of Bradford Trident, said: “This is an exciting development for us.

"The Parkside Centre is in the heart of our local community and has a long history, much valued by many local people. We aim to work with local residents and other community groups to develop new services at the centre."