Work is due to get underway on a £3.5m sports centre for Abertillery after Sportlot, the Sports Council for Wales, awarded £1.5m towards the project.

The scheme will replace the Abertillery Leisure Centre and will be located at the Abertillery Comprehensive School, meeting Sportlot's national strategy of developing sports facilities on school sites.

The centre will offer a 25m competition pool, a learner pool and a sports hall. A dance studio, gym and squash courts will be located on the first floor.

'This ambitious project has inspired everyone involved since its conception,' said Councillor Nigel Daniels. 'The sporting provision of the new centre will complement the existing outdoor facilities of the campus and increase opportunities for participation in sporting activity for many people. It will be an invaluable asset to the community.'