The University of Worcester (UW) has confirmed that contractor Willmott Dixon is due to commence construction work on the new £15m Worcester Arena development in January.

Robert Limbrick Architects are behind the designs for the new sports complex, which is set to become a new national centre of excellence for disability sport such as blind football.

The 5,300sq m (57,049sq ft) Worcester Arena will be built on the former fruit and vegetable market site and boast a 12-court sports hall, with retractable seating for up to 2,000 people.

Sport England recently confirmed it would contribute £1.5m towards the project through its Iconic Facilities fund; one of six nationwide developments to benefit from the funding.

It is expected that Willmott Dixon will complete construction and fit-out work by January 2013, with funding also provided by England Basketball and England Badminton.

UW vice chancellor and chief executive Professor David Green said: "The Worcester Arena will provide outstanding new opportunities to engage in sport.

"It will become home from home for many athletes with a mobility impairment, as well as the long standing, much acclaimed Learning Through Sport programme for children."

Details: www.worcesterarena.com