WORK on the new £17.5m leisure centre being built at Sedbergh Playing Fields in Bradford starts on Monday.

Initial work will involve earthworks and the felling of 119 trees, some to make way for the construction of the centre and some described by Bradford Council as “diseased and damaged.”

The new energy efficient leisure centre is set to include a six-lane 25m pool, a gym, fitness studios, and winter sports pitches.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby said: ““These are the first steps towards making this exciting new development become a reality. This much needed new facility will offer the latest facilities in a modern and energy efficient environment.

“We hope this sports centre will inspire more people to get active so they can live a happier, healthier life in the Bradford district.

“We are aware that removing over 100 trees may worry some people but this work is essential to clear space for construction work and enable us to create properly managed and landscaped green spaces on the site. Ultimately we will plant more trees than we are planning to fell.