The South West Lakes Trust has announced that it has secured funding to build a £1m watersports training centre at Stithians Lake in Cornwall.

Half the cost of the centre has been provided by Sport England with the rest of the funding coming from a number of partners – including the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA), Cornwall County Council, Kerrier District Council, Falmouth College and South West Water.

Building work is due completion in late 2007 and will include the construction of a multipurpose training facility, providing lecture rooms, ICT access, boat and equipment storage, clubroom and changing facilities.

Other developments at the lake will include a new slipway and pontoon, while visitors can benefit from the introduction of orienteering courses, a cycle track and a bridleway.

The project will also create a development office that will build programmes for vocational training, adult education courses and coaching opportunities t all levels.

Stephen Bohane, head of operations in Cornwall for RDA, said: “Although Cornwall has a high percentage of marine and inland users, the county currently lacks any watersports facilities that can offer a year-round venue for vocational training.

“The project will have a significant impact by creating a number of direct jobs and attracting high-spending visitors to the Stithians area.”

According to the South West Lakes Trust, Stithians Lake attracts around 50,000 visits a year – although the only existing facilities are limited to portable buildings, wooden sheds and a concrete store.

The area is popular among anglers, campers, ramblers and bird watchers, with the Cornwall Birdwatching & Preservation society having two hides on the shores of the lake. Details: www.swlakestrust.org.uk