Hertfordshire-based construction group Willmott Dixon has been appointed by Sandwell Council to build a new £8.1m swimming pool and leisure complex in the West Midlands.

The venue - designed by Sandwell Urban Design Architects, the council's in-house service - will occupy a vacant site at the corner of Alexandra Road and Thursfield Road in Tipton.

Facilities will include a 25m, six-lane swimming pool; a learner pool; and a dance studio, in addition to a fitness suite and a changing village. Physical Company supplied the equipment for the suite, which will include flooring, kettlebells, ViPRs, med balls, The Human Trainer, pump sets, steps, strength bars, dumbells and mats.

The centre is due to open in spring 2013.

Martin Adie, operations director for Willmott Dixon in the Midlands, said: "We have extensive experience constructing such facilities across the UK, including building more than 100 pools in the last 15 years."

Sandwell Council member for strategic resources Steve Eling added: "[The project] has reached a landmark stage with the letting of the contract to Willmott Dixon and - once completed - it will be welcomed by everyone in Tipton."