A turf-cutting ceremony has been held to mark the start of work on a £6.45m refurbishment of the Aqua Vale Swimming and Fitness Centre in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire.

Willmott Dixon Construction will be delivering the revamp, which is financed by Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) in conjunction with Aylesbury Vale Community Trust.

Due for completion in September 2012, the first phase of the scheme will see the installation of a retractable roof for the outdoor pool and the creation of new changing facilities.

A second stage of improvements will include a new flume and an overhaul of the fitness suite and changing village, while eco-friendly measures will also be implemented at the venue.

AVDC cabinet member for leisure David Thompson said: "The ceremony marks the start of the latest development programme to get underway in Aylesbury, which will greatly enhance the leisure centre and provide even better facilities for customers.

"The project will give a huge boost to the centre and will be something that everyone in Aylesbury Vale can be proud of."

Details: www.aylesburyleisure.com