Telford new schools' buildings will open in January

It was originally thought Abraham Darby Sports and Leisure Centre would open later in 2012

A Shropshire school where five men were injured when a canopy collapsed will open in January.

It was originally thought Abraham Darby Sports and Leisure Centre would open in late 2012 after a new design was issued for the structure.

But now the building, along with the new Woodlands Primary School, will both open next term.

Developers Keir Moss will hand over the new buildings to Telford & Wrekin Council on 9 December.

The schools will make the move over the Christmas period.

The first day of school for Woodlands Primary School pupils will start on 9 January after a launch event on 6 January.

'Open up opportunities'

John Demmerling, head teacher at Woodlands Primary School said: "Both the children and the staff at Woodlands Primary School are absolutely ecstatic about the move.

"The new buildings will make a huge difference to the learning experience we can provide. We really can't wait to get in there."

The public will be able to make use of the new leisure facilities at Abraham Darby Sports and Leisure Centre, part of the Abraham Darby Learning Community, from 9 January.

The facilities will also replace those currently available at the Madeley Sports Centre.

The Madeley Sports Centre will close to the public on 18 December to allow staff to move over to the new premises and complete training.

Councillor Arnold England, cabinet member for leisure and wellbeing, said: "These wonderful new facilities will not only benefit existing customers but will open up opportunities for the whole community to become more active."