The new facility is being built next to the existing centre, and will include a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool featuring an adjustable-depth movable floor to accommodate users of all ages and abilities. Tiered spectator seating will also be available for local aquatic events.

It will also have a state-of the-art gym, a wellness suite with sauna and steam rooms and a multi-functional fitness and dance studio adaptable for community events.

There will also be a three-court games hall which supports a variety of sports activities such as badminton, pickleball and five-a-side football, and larger community events.

The majority of the funding for the project, £22.5 million, comes from South Lanarkshire Council, with City Deal contributing £3 million, the Scottish Government £2.1 million and SportScotland £200,000.

The additional flexible spaces can be used to support learning and training opportunities for local people as well as business support activities including for entrepreneurs, microbusinesses, and small to medium sized businesses.

Council Leader Maureen Devlin said: “The new leisure centre will be a brand-new state-of the-art facility which the community can be proud of, and which is fit for generations to come. 

“It is the most expensive facility, outwith the secondary schools’ programme, that the council has built.

“It’s great to see work now fully underway and I can’t wait to see how it looks when completed in 2028.”

BAM Construction have been appointed by the council and South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture, in conjunction with hub South West, to deliver the project.

CEO of hub South West, David MacDonald, said: “It is rewarding to see this project move from vision to reality, and completing the sod-cutting ceremony brings us another step closer to delivering something meaningful for the community.

“In partnership with South Lanarkshire Council and BAM, we are creating a place where people of all ages can be active, connect with others and improve their wellbeing. Just as importantly, we want the project to create opportunities for local people and businesses throughout construction.” 

Forbes Dunlop, sportscotland Chief Executive: “We are delighted to see this level of investment in South Lanarkshire, the project will bring huge benefits to Larkhall and the surrounding communities.

“This is a significant milestone towards that, and we look forward to working with South Lanarkshire Council and the other partners as the project progresses.”