Willmott Dixon has been selected by Arun District Council to build a £15 million Littlehampton Leisure Centre that will boost economic growth and create new jobs.

The company will now deliver Littlehampton’s new leisure centre, which will feature an eight-lane, 25 metre swimming pool, learner pool, gym, dance and cycling studios, sports hall and café.

Construction is set to start in 2017, with the centre built on the site of the current sports dome and overflow car park and the existing building will then be demolished. The public will use the current leisure centre while the new one takes shape.

Willmott Dixon has delivered more than £100 million of leisure facilities in the past six month and the company’s recent involvement in flagship schemes includes new centres in Tewkesbury, Dartford, Scarborough, St Albans, Oldham, Hebburn, High Wycombe and Romford.

Councillor Paul Dendle, Arun District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Amenities said: “We are delighted to announce Willmott Dixon as the successful company. They have a proven track record in delivering similar projects and we are excited about seeing this major project get underway.

“We believe that when open, the leisure centre and swimming pool will be a facility that the town can be really proud of and that residents can enjoy for years to come.”

Roger Forsdyke, managing director of Willmott Dixon construction in Cobham, said: “We are proud to have secured Littlehampton’s flagship leisure centre. We’ll be working closely with Arun District Council to provide the local community with much needed new facilities.”

Creating a legacy is also important and Willmott Dixon will deploy its Community Investment Plan which includes local work placements, trainee and graduate placements and apprenticeships, along with creating new jobs.