Work has started on a £6.3m development project at Lee Valley White Water Centre in North London as part of legacy plans for the London 2012 Olympic venue.

Scheduled to be completed by early 2014, the works on the site will include improving the international competition-standard facilities with the creation of a new gym and physiotherapy suite housed in an extension to the existing centre.

For non-competition users, there will be more changing rooms which will increase the capacity for rafting and paddling at peak times.

Spectator facilities will also be improved with a new outdoor classroom, more catering provision and extra space to find shade, shelter and seating in a new pavilion overlooking the competition course.

There will also be a training and administration facility for use by the British Canoe Union (BCU).

Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA) CEO Shaun Dawson said: "We have listened to feedback from customers and the improvement work will enhance the experience for visitors to this world class venue.

"The expansion of facilities and the addition of an outdoor classroom will increase the accessibility of the venue for local communities, participants and sports clubs and provide even more opportunities for the next generation of athletes."

Funding for the development will come from a variety of organisations including LVRPA and BCU.