AN OPENING date has been given for the brand new multi-million-pound leisure centre in Andover.

Following two years of works, the state-of-the-art leisure facility will be open to the public on April 1.

The new centre will have swimming pools, sports halls, squash courts and a 165-station gym, and will replace the old centre which sits next door.

Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “I am absolutely thrilled at the level of quality throughout our brand new centre. Everyone who has played a part in its design and build has done a fantastic job.

“I’m sure many happy hours will be spent at the centre by residents of Andover and further afield and I’m very grateful to Places Leisure, Pellikaan Construction and architects, Roberts Limbrick for delivering a fabulous facility on time.

“We pledged to deliver a state-of-the-art facility and I’m so pleased that we have done that right in the town centre.”

Community and leisure portfolio holder, Councillor Tony Ward, added: “The quality of the equipment at our new leisure centre is second to none. We are very excited for people to come and see it and I’m sure they are likely to make the most of our new facilities.

“We have listened to residents and included studios and multi-purpose areas to try and suit all needs across the two floors.

Of course there’s also the brand new climbing area featuring the Clip n Climb and other apparatus for those of all ages to enjoy. I look forward to seeing them in use!”

The centre will be managed by Places Leisure in association with the council and will offer a range of programmes and activities.