Leeds City Council (LCC) has announced that BAM Construction has commenced preparatory work at the site of the city's new multi-million pound entertainment arena.

Populous is behind the design of the new Leeds Arena, which will be capable of accommodating 13,500 spectators and will ensure that the furthest seat is no more than 68m (223ft) from the centre of the stage. Work to prepare the city's Claypit Lane site will see sewers and drains diverted ahead of the start of construction work, which is scheduled to get underway in early 2011. The arena is due to be open in late 2012.

LCC executive member for city development Richard Lewis said: "It's great news that work has started to prepare the site for the arena - everything remains on schedule for construction of this exciting venue to start early in 2011. "Once complete, the arena will bring an addition 1 million visitors to Leeds and an annual economic benefit of over £25m all of which is hugely important for creating employment for local people and attracting investment to the city."

Image: Populous