The fire-damaged grandstand at Wimbledon Park has been given a new lease of life thanks to renovation work.

Merton Council stepped in to bring the building back after it was targeted by vandals last year.

The commentator’s office at the top of the grandstand has had a new roof and has been fully refurbished. The changing rooms, toilet facilities and the disability shower have been refitted and there is new wiring throughout. The main room in the middle of the grandstand was stripped back to the brickwork and rebuilt so it now has new walls, ceilings and flooring. Outside, the main seating area has been water proofed and repainted and the stand is benefiting from new lighting.

In the final phase of the refurbishment, the council will be replacing the four old boilers with new, efficient models that will keep the building well heated in the colder months.

Merton Council cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Nick Draper said: “It is wonderful to see this important building refurbished and in restored condition. The athletics track is vital to sports clubs including the Wimbledon Windmilers and Hercules Athletics Club and I know many of our school children use it too. Providing sports facilities like this is all part of our work to make Merton a great place for families and a healthy place to live.”