BAM has been appointed to deliver a new £26 million leisure centre in Dover.

The new facility will replace the current 40-year old Dover Leisure Centre and construction is set to start on the 2.1-hectare site in Whitfield later this month. Completion is scheduled for early 2019.

Features of the new Dover District Leisure Centre will include a standard eight-lane swimming pool with spectator seating for 250 people, learner pool with moveable floor, four court sports hall, squash courts, multi-function room, fitness gym with 120 stations, fitness studios, clip 'n' climb wall, and a café.

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The plans also include two outdoor 3G artificial pitches for five-a-side football and a minimum of 250 parking spaces.

The scheme is supported by Sport England with a National Lottery award of £1.5m from its Strategic Facilities Fund.

Council Leader Paul Watkins said: "This is a major investment in the health and well-being of the district. We are grateful for the support of Sport England in developing these exciting proposals, and would like to thank the many stakeholders, local sports clubs and individuals who have contributed ideas. We look forward to delivering a 21st century leisure centre fit for the district."

Daniel Brenchley, Project Manager, BAM Construct UK, said: “Having built in Dover recently, it's particularly satisfying to return especially to create something that so many people will enjoy using."

(LM/MH)