Stepnell has completed an £11.3 million leisure centre at Stychbrook Park in Lichfield, marking a major milestone in the district's leisure provision.

The new facility officially opened its doors with Double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE in attendance.

Replacing the Friary Grange Sports Centre, the development features a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, an 80-station gym, modern spin and dance studios, a community room, and an outdoor 3G pitch with updated changing facilities.

The project was procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, with Stepnell appointed by Lichfield District Council as the complete design and build construction partner.

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"From the early planning stages through to delivery of this state-of-the-art community facility, our deep expertise in the leisure and public sectors has been fundamental to delivering a modern, inclusive space on time and within budget - encompassing the pool and fitness facilities, community room and outdoor sports provision," said Graham Lambert, director at Stepnell.

"By working collaboratively with Lichfield District Council and The ReCreation Group and engaging with community organisations including The Friends of Priory Grange, we have ensured the facility meets ambitions for a high-quality, contemporary leisure and community asset that will deliver long-term health and social benefits for Lichfield."

Rebecca Adlington OBE said: "Sharing the key milestones of this project and watching the development of Lichfield Leisure Centre from the first spade in the ground to the first swimmers in the water has been a joy!

"Opening the new Leisure Centre is a wonderful reminder of how powerful community spaces can be. Learning to swim changed my life, and I believe every child and adult deserves the same opportunity. Facilities like this make swimming accessible to everyone, helping build confidence, safety and a lifelong love of being active."