The new Arcadia Library and Leisure Centre in Levenshulme will open its doors to the public for the first time on Saturday, February 20.

The new centre, on Yew Tree Avenue, officially opens at 12 noon. To celebrate the grand opening the centre will be free to use  until 4.30pm on the day.

Arcadia has both a 25m and a 17m swimming pool as well as a 60-station gym, sauna and steam room, and community studio.

In addition to the sports facilities Arcadia is also the home of a new library with computers for internet use, while photocopying and printing will also be available, plus free wifi access.

The library will be staffed for 30 hours per week and library services, including internet access and wifi,  will be available throughout the centre’s opening hours via a self-service terminal.

Public tours will be available for anyone who wants to see inside the new centre along with the chance to take part in a selection of free sessions.

And for anyone looking to join the gym, free gym inductions will be on offer throughout the afternoon.

The leisure centre at Arcadia will be run by Greenwich Leisure Limited while the library will be managed by Manchester Libraries.

Councillor Rosa Battle, Manchester City Council executive member for culture and leisure, said: “A great deal of time and hard work has gone into the creation of the Arcadia Library and Leisure Centre – though it won’t be truly finished until we open the doors and welcome local people.

“The whole centre already looks fantastic but I can’t wait to see it being used. It’s the energy end enthusiasm of the local community that will truly establish the Acadia at the heart of Levenshulme life.

“I am sure Arcadia will prove incredibly popular for years to come – and I hope everyone feels welcome whether they want to exercise, read or simply socialise.”

The Acadia Library and Leisure Centre will open on Saturday, February  20, at midday. The public opening will be preceded by a short ceremony beginning at 10.30 am.