Plans have been approved for a £20 million sports facilities redevelopment project at the University of Stirling.

The project involves creating a new sports complex at the University that will be integrated with existing world-class facilities.

Features will include purpose-built studios, a fitness suite, three-court sports hall, indoor cycling studio, strength and conditioning area, as well as a new state-of-the-art high-performance suite. Users will also benefit from enhanced changing facilities and communal spaces, while the National Swimming Academy, National Tennis Centre, sports hall and squash courts will remain in their current form.

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Construction work is scheduled to get underway in autumn this year, with the centre to be in operation by summer 2020.

Professor Gerry McCormac, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: "This is another significant milestone for the University and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience at Stirling.

"Alongside the exciting Campus Central project, the sports facilities redevelopment is part of our major enhancement programme that will transform campus life and help us achieve our strategic aim of being one of the top 25 universities in the UK by 2021."

Director of Sport, Cathy Gallagher, said: "This investment will literally break new ground in respect of sport, physical activity and wellbeing. Our ambition is to set standards at local, national and international levels and the significantly enhanced facilities will unleash new participation, innovative opportunities and an unrivalled experience.

"The unique feature of sport at the University of Stirling is the environment within which Olympic medallists train and compete alongside students, staff and the wider community. This development will mark the beginning of another exciting chapter for sport at the University and within the Stirling area."

(LM/MH)