Construction work has started on a £310,000 refurbishment scheme at Abbey Swimming Pool in Cambridge in order to modernise the centre's facilities.

The five-week project will include separate male and female showering facilities and larger lockers, while the centre's existing all-weather pitch will be replaced with a 'Tiger Turf' surface. New portable weighted goals and team shelters will also be provided as part of work to upgrade the all-weather pitch, which will be suitable for hockey matches and football training.

Cambridge City Council's (CCC) head of active communities, Debbie Kaye, said: "The council is keen to encourage people to be active and to take part in sport; therefore it is important that high-quality facilities are provided which are both attractive and affordable." Work on the all-weather pitch is expected to be completed on 23 October.