The £20m project, which Wates won through the Southern Construction Framework, will see the replacement of the current leisure centre and library.

Demolition of the superstructure of the Dunstable Leisure Centre is now complete, although the demolition of the ground floor slab and basement is still ongoing. Removal of the roof covering the sports hall will be completed shortly.

When the build phase is completed in winter 2018/19, the new leisure facility will offer a 100-station gym, multi-purpose studios and a 25m swimming pool alongside a new library in the centre of town.

Ian Vickers, Managing Director, Wates Construction Home Counties, said: “Redeveloping Dunstable Leisure Centre is a priority in the Council’s Leisure Strategy.

After 42-years of service, the old centre was no longer fit for purpose and did not offer value for our customers.”