Construction work is now underway on a new £21m sports and leisure facility to replace the existing Fife Institute for Physical and Recreational Educational (FIPRE) in Glenrothes.

Graham Construction has been chosen by Fife Council to build the new complex, which has been designed by B3 Architects and Cre8 Architecture. Facilities will include a 25m x 17m, eight-lane competition pool with viewing gallery to cater for 250 spectators and a 20m x 10m training pool with a moveable floor.

Elsewhere, a 11m x 5m teaching and remedial pool; a strength and conditioning studio and separate aerobics studio; and a 80-station fitness suite will be on offer at the new centre. Eight regional-standard badminton courts and two squash courts are also planned as part of the indoor facilities, while a full-size synthetic pitch is among outdoor facilities to be built.

The scheme forms part of Fife Council's wider £50m investment in local sports and leisure facilities, with the complex to be operated by Fife Sports and Leisure Trust (FSLT). FSLT chief executive Ed Watson said: "The new facilities will replace a much-loved leisure centre, which has served Glenrothes well over the decades."

The new complex is scheduled to open in spring 2013.