THE first turf has been cut as builders prepare to begin work on Dorcester’s new £8million leisure centre.

The Dorchester Sports Centre, on the site of the existing Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre in Coburg Road, is due to open in 2012.

The new complex will boast a six-lane swimming pool with a spectator gallery, a 60-station fitness suite, dance studio, changing village and increased parking.

Preparatory work on the project – which is being developed by The Thomas Hardye School, West Dorset District Council and Dorset County Council – began on October 18 when builders from the Leadbitter Group moved on to the site.

Representatives from all the groups involved attended a turf cutting ceremony ahead of the start of the construction phase of the project next month.

District council leader Robert Gould said: “It is an honour to be cutting the first turf for this fantastic new facility.

“We know that there is a real demand for high-quality swimming and fitness facilities in Dorchester and this is an important step on the road to delivering what residents have asked for.”

Thomas Hardye headteacher Dr Iain Melvin, who is also chairman of the swimming pool project board, added: “Everyone associated with the school is excited by the proposal of these new facilities.

“It will result in wonderful opportunities for the children of Thomas Hardye and other schools.”

Southampton-based Leadbitter is currently working on extra car parking on either side of the leisure centre site, which will mean that when construction work begins there will be no significant loss of parking.

County council cabinet member for children’s services Toni Coombs said: “This is another example of organisations working together for the benefit of the local community, and children and young people in particular.”

Once the new centre is open the existing pool will be filled in and a sports hall built in its place, which is expected to be completed in 2013.

David Cook from the Leadbitter Group added: “We are delighted to have secured this prestigious project, and look forward to working with the team to deliver first class leisure facilities. We will be seeking to engage fully with the local community during the construction phase of the project.”

Residents were concerned about the impact of the scheme when plans were first announced.

Coburg Road resident Carol Gleadhall said people living near the site were worried about the impact of the works and traffic.

Maria Cole warned that traffic was horrendous on the road.