Stepnell has started work on a £9.5m project to create a new leisure centre in Lichfield.

As construction partner, Stepnell was appointed to undertake the design and build by Lichfield District Counci for the site in Stychbrook Park.

The new leisure centre will include a 25 metre, six-lane pool, changing rooms, circulation spaces, a gym, fitness/dance studio and a spin studio. It will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre.

Stepnell was joined at a ground breaking ceremony by Olympic champion swimmer Rebecca Adlington.

The project, procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, is set to complete in late 2025.

Adrian Barnes, regional director at Stepnell, said: “Following an in-depth procurement process, our appointment to Stychbrook Park is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with Lichfield District Council and add to the growing expertise within the leisure sector.

“As with all our projects, our teams are committed to delivering a strong level of collaboration and communication with the local community and will actively seek engagement throughout the build process to ensure the end result is something the whole community can be proud of.”

Alongside Stepnell, the project team also includes architecture firm Box Architects, civil and structural engineers Adept, and building services design, BWB Consulting.

Further works to construct a new car park and collection of 3G pitches is set to be undertaken in the near future.