A groundbreaking ceremony has been held to offically mark the start of work on the construction of a new £26m Aquatics Centre at Stopsley Common, Luton.

Luton Borough Council (LBC) are leading the project along with Luton Learning and Community Partnership (LLCP) and Surrey-based contractor Wates Construction. The new Aquatics Centre will boast a 50m, eight-lane swimming pool with diving facility and spectator seating for 400 people, as well as a 20m, five-lane community pool with moveable floor.

A 100-station fitness suite and a large sports hall will also feature as part of the S&P Architects-designed complex, along with a dance studio; a spinning room; a multi-use activity room and a café. It is hoped the new Aquatic Centre, which is due to open in 2012, will help drive up participation among local residents, as well as improving health and wellbeing in the town.

LBC leader Hazel Simmons said: "We are committed to investing in the Luton Aquatics Centre that will provide superb swimming and diving facilities and a modern sports centre to help the people of Luton to live healthier more active lives. "It's taken many years for us to get to this stage and we have had to overcome many challenges but we are delighted that finally the town will get what it deserves."

LLCP general manager Pip Hesketh added: "This is the most recent of a number of projects being delivered in partnership with the council designed to dramatically improve the quality of life for Luton communities."