London-based contractor Leadbitter Group has been awarded a contract to design and construct the new £23m Becontree Heath Leisure Centre, London.

Working to original designs drawn up by S&P Architects, the new complex will include a 100-station fitness suite and two workout studios with dedicated changing facilities. Becontree Heath Leisure Centre will also feature a 10-lane, 25m swimming pool and learner pool; a four-court sports hall; a 500-seat spectator area and a community/martial arts room.

The agreement is the company's first within the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (LBBC), with the new centre also set to include youth space and treatment and referral rooms. Expected to open to the public in May 2011, the new centre will replace Wood Lane Sports Centre and Dagenham Pool - both of which will remain open until Becontree Heath opens.

Regional director for Leadbitter's Central Construction Division, Richard Nixon, said: "Leadbitter is delighted to be undertaking this project, which we hope will be the first of many for the borough."