Council bosses say the project to complete the leisure, health and social care complex is on track, despite downpours over the summer.

Contractor Thomas Vale Construction has erected the building's steel frame and is now preparing to start on the brickwork. Due to open by late summer next year, the completed lifestyle centre will create 12 new jobs.

Councillor Steve Eling, Sandwell Council's deputy leader and cabinet member for strategic resources, said: "Thomas Vale has faced some difficult weather conditions since work began but it’s on schedule to deliver what will be one of the most modern leisure centres in the country."

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It will feature a full-sized artificial grass pitch, outdoor exercise trail, sports hall, hydrotherapy pool, gym and weight area, dance studio, sensory room, climbing wall and café. There will also be a GP practice.

The lifestyle centre is a joint scheme between Sandwell Council, Sandwell Leisure Trust, Sandwell Primary Care Trust and Sandwell Liftco.

Sport England has provided £1.5m from their Iconic Facilities legacy fund.

(CD)