A NEW multi-million-pound leisure centre is set to be built in Rowley Regis as part of the latest round of levelling up funding.

The government has announced that Sandwell Council will receive £20m for the new project, which will replace the old Haden Hill Leisure Centre.

The project will be a "huge boost to the local area that will revive sport and leisure facilities," according to the government website.

More than 100 projects awarded share of £2.1 billion from Round 2 of the government’s flagship Levelling Up Fund to create jobs and boost the economy.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris said: “I am pleased that the application for the redevelopment of Haden Hill Leisure Centre was successful, and I’m sure the news will be welcomed by the local community. I

"t will help to get more people fit and active, which brings benefits not just for physical health but mental health too.

"Maintenance costs have increased significantly on the existing centre, and I look forward to work starting on the new facility.”

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove said: "We are firing the starting gun on more than a hundred transformational projects in every corner of the UK that will revitalise communities that have historically been overlooked but are bursting with potential.

"This new funding will create jobs, drive economic growth, and help to restore local pride. We are delivering on the people’s priorities, levelling up across the UK to ensure that no matter where you are from, you can go as far as your talents will take you".