South Tyneside Council (STC) has announced that construction work has started on a new £16m swimming pool and leisure complex on the seafront in South Shields.

Designed by LA Architects, the complex will be located on the town's former Majestic and Quasar Laser site and will be delivered by construction firm GRAHAM. Facilities will include a 25m, eight-lane competition pool and an 18m x 8m teaching pool - both with adjustable floors - and leisure waters with flumes, sprays and water play.

A sauna and steamroom; an 80-station gym; two dance studios; fitness testing/consultation rooms; and an outdoor terrace and amphitheatre also form part of the development. Due to open in spring 2013, the swimming pool and leisure complex is designed to boost the redevelopment of South Shields foreshore.

STC leader Iain Malcolm said: "The pool is a major part of the Council's multi-million pound regeneration plans for South Shields. "It is contributing towards our aim of bringing about economic growth and greater prosperity for everyone who lives and works in South Tyneside."