THE WAIT is almost over.

A date has been announced for the opening of a new multi-million pound leisure centre in Eastleigh.

The £25 million Places Leisure Eastleigh will open its doors to the public for the first time on November 28.

The state-of-the-art replacement for the popular Fleming Park Leisure Centre, which has been developed by Eastleigh Borough Council, offers new facilities and equipment in the parkland-based building.

The opening date was made last night by leader of the council, cllr Keith house at the full council.

The building, co-funded by Sport England, who contributed £2 million to the scheme, will feature a giant sports hall – believed to be the third biggest in the country – that will house 15 badminton courts and is to be run by Places for People Leisure.

It also offers an eight-lane, 25-metre main swimming pool.

Councillor House said: “We’re very excited about the opening of Places Leisure Eastleigh and I know that people across our Borough and further afield will be hugely impressed by this superb new venue.

“It is a tribute to all involved that it is being delivered on time and within budget.

“As well as offering superb facilities, Places Leisure Eastleigh will be our flagship for promoting wellbeing and healthier lifestyles across the Borough – and the cost of construction comes at no cost to our council tax payers.”