Paralympic star launches new leisure complex for East End

Since May 2005 the leisure centre has offered extensive football and athletics facilities.

The second phase of the development, opened today, includes fitness studios, a four court sports hall, health spa, a 25 metre competition pool and a 17 metre pool with adjustable floor to enable better access for people with disabilities and younger swimmers.

Located less than two miles from the Olympic Park the complex has been identified as a potential training venue for athletics and triathlon for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games.

Sports minister, Richard Caborn said: "This impressive new leisure centre will no doubt be a real asset to the local community in the run up to 2012 and beyond.

"Investments like this are very important because they provide the local community with a place where people of all ages can come along, play sport and participate.

"Whether you have dreams of competing in an Olympic or Paralympic Games, or just simply want to keep fit multi sport centres like this one are vital."

15 February 2006