A dance studio and theatre will replace part of Queen's Leisure Centre in Derby, which has been deemed not fit for purpose.

Art Council funding, announced on 22 January, gave local dance academy Déda - which currently neighbours Queen's Leisure - the means to go ahead with the expansion, due to start April 2014.

Derby City Council's leisure strategy, signed off in 2010, deemed the Springwood Leisure Centre the only facility in the city still fit for purpose, and Queen’s Leisure is due to be decommissioned in 2015.

An investment of £50m has been signed off for replacement leisure facilities across Derby, including two major sports hubs and satellite facilities in the north, east, west and south.

A groundbreaking ceremony for a multi-use sports arena was held in November and will include a velodrome, 12-court sports hall, fitness and wellness facilities and a sports infield.

Derby City Council director of leisure and culture Claire Davenport said the significant investment in leisure facilities mean there are likely to be new job opportunities for people currently employed at Queen’s Leisure.

Déda's expansion, due to open September 2014, will include a new dance and production studio, conference facility and glass atrium.

Déda currently hosts 50 classes a week, and when the expansion is complete facilities will be the base for a new degree in dance, being developed by Déda and the University of Derby.