WORK on the final phase of a major upgrade at the Pulse leisure centre is due to start imminently.

The centre in Castle Street, Dursley will be closed on Thursday, May 16 and Friday, May 17 as part of a £5 million project to to install air source heat pumps at three locations in the district.

It previously closed for one week during the autumn half term as part of the revamp.

Stroud District Council is replacing ageing gas boilers with new heating systems meaning the site will use outside air and recycled heat from the centre as heating boosted by additional solar panels.

Users should be aware that during the closure, pass holders will be unable to use facilities at Stratford Park Leisure Centre for free.

Similar work is being carried out at Stratford Park, which will also be closed for two days, and the Museum in the Park, which will be closed for five days.

It is believed once complete, the project will save hundreds of tonnes of carbon emissions every year from the three public buildings.

It comes as SDC is hoping to become carbon neutral by 2030.

A spokesperson for the Pulse said: "As you have been aware, most of the work at The Pulse has taken place behind the scenes but there has been some disruption throughout the installation for which we thank you for your patience.

"Unfortunately, the final phase will cause considerable disruption to public areas with the loss of mains power, therefore cannot take place while the buildings are open to the public.

"Stratford Park Leisure Centre will be open during our closure.

"However, please note that Pulse memberships are not valid at the centre so you will need to pay to use the facility.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused and welcome you back to the centre on Saturday, May 18."

Stratford Park Leisure Centre will be closed on Monday, May 13 and Friday, May 24.

Meanwhile, Museum in the Park in Stroud will close from Tuesday, May 14 to Friday, May 17, and Friday, May 24.

In March this year, the Dursley centre was also awarded nearly £300k by the government to refurbish the entrance area and to install a new air-handling unit.