Work on £31.5m leisure centre starting in autumn

An artist's impression shows what the leisure centre in Leighton Buzzard could look like

Work is due to start later this year on a £31.5m leisure and community centre that should "enhance the quality of life for the local community", its builders said.

Construction will begin in October on the facility at Clipstone Park, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, and it is expected to open in the summer of 2026.

It will include a gym, an eight-lane 25m (82ft) swimming pool and a smaller learner pool.

Willmott Dixon, the developer that was chosen by Central Bedfordshire Council, said it would "meet the needs of Leighton-Linslade's growing population".

Tiddenfoot Leisure Centre, part of Cedars Upper School, would remain open during and after the build, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.