As she checked in at the front counter she became the 2.5 millionth user of the centre, which was officially opened on September 6, 2002 after being redeveloped from the earlier outdoor layout.

“I used to come to the outdoor pool 50 years ago as a teacher, urging the girls on during swimming sports,” she recalled.

“Now I’ve recently taken up classes at AquaZone to keep fit in my retirement and come four times a week — it’s great.”

The former English teacher is among thousands who regularly use the centre with annual patronage rising from 162,427 in 2002/3 to 210,128 last financial year. This included 46,531 patrons for group fitness session.

City council service manager Ray Smith told The Standard patronage was expected to increase further with new 40 per cent discounts for off-peak membership rates.

“We are attracting a broader cross-section of the community from babies through to seniors,” Mr Smith said. “People come not only for exercise, but social contact.”

Mr Smith said despite predictions that the loss of the former diving pool would lead to a decline in youth patronage there had been a resurgence, especially during summer months with the introduction of an inflatable slippery slide. “We’ve now added a giant swing and each year will try to add another type of inflatable to provide more reasons for young people to come,” he said.

“The gymnasium is being updated with new equipment and we will launch a new app for smart phones and devices this week which has nutrition advice and real-time links to our programs.

“By mid-November the outdoor Olympic pool should be filled for summer and autumn.”