The Ryland Centre in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, is to undergo a £700,000 refurbishment programme.

The centre’s track and field events areas will be completely revamped and new disabled changing facilities with ramps and hoists will be installed.

The project has received a grant of £200,000 from Sport England, while Worcestershire County Council will put in a further £500,000. Bromsgrove School has agreed to provide support for the centre’s maintenance over the next 10 years.

Paul Finnemore, operational manager for the county council’s Youth Support Service, said: “The track has been a source of concern for several years and this has secured its future – it’s testament to the hard work and support of the staff and volunteers of the centre and its many user groups.

“It also enables the centre to plan for even greater things in its work to improve access to positive activities for young people, with particular emphasis on those with disabilities.”

A spokesperson for Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletics Club, which uses the centre, added: “This investment will not only provide impetus for our existing athletes but will no doubt encourage other local residents of all ages and abilities to get active and strive towards their potential as we move towards 2012 and the opportunities this will bring.”