The contracts are signed, the first grass sod has been turned, and the development of the new Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre in St Albans is underway.

Willmott Dixon, the Council’s building contractor began work on site on Monday 21 March, following initial work to prepare the site in January and February.

The first grass sod was cut by the Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Maxine Crawley, the ceremonial head of the Council, in a recent groundbreaking ceremony (pictured).

It is hoped that the centre, which is due to be completed in summer 2012, will encourage increased participation in physical activity by all ages and abilities and the mix of facilities has been planned with this in mind.

The centre will include a

· 25m x 8 lane main pool with 50% moveable floor

· 17x10m training pool with 100% moveable floor

· confidence water area for children

· four court sports hall

· poolside health suite

· spa

· 200 station fitness gym and youth gym

· two exercise/multi purpose studios

· climbing wall

· crèche

· children’s soft play area

· café/bistro