Image: A 25m swimming pool is among the facilities

The Leadbitter Group has completed construction work on the new £8m Dorchester Sports Centre, which will replace existing facilities at the Dorset town's Thomas Hardye School.

Designed by Dyer, the new facility is the result of a partnership between the school, Dorset County Council and West Dorset District Council. It will be operated by leisure trust 1610.

A 60-station fitness suite and a 25m, six-lane swimming pool are among the facilities at the new Dorchester Sports Centre, as well as a learner pool, a dance studio and changing areas.

The pool hall, which also contains a spectator gallery, is designed to maximise views of the surrounding countryside, while the building itself is in keeping with the nearby Poundbury Estate.

Dorset County Council's Toni Coombs said: "With so much focus in the county for sports this summer it couldn't have come at a better time and will benefit young people for years to come."

West Dorset District Council chair Gillian Summers added: "The centre will provide first-class swimming and fitness facilities for the local community and we are very much looking forward to when the facility is officially open."

Click here for more information about Dorchester Sports Centre.

Image (c) Big Picture