Local schools in the south of the district will benefit from artificial pitches at a new £4.6 million leisure centre nearing completion in London Colney.

Built by St Albans district council, Cotlandswick Leisure Centre will shortly open its doors to residents.

Cllr Annie Brewster, portfolio holder for sports, said pupils would “benefit directly from the fabulous new pitches about to be opened, by having free access during school hours.”

The centre will provide local children, aged between five and 16 years, the chance to use its nine new outdoor artificial pitches for a wide variety of sports including football, hockey, dodgeball, netball and tennis, from Monday to Friday.

General manager at the centre, Martin Holland, said: “We understand the pressures on school budgets so making use of the pitches free for schools during the week will provide them with some great sports facilities that are second-to-none.”

The centre, which is opening its doors to the public on Saturday, June 27, includes a state-of-the-art gym, group exercise studio, indoor soft play area, bistro café and free parking.

Parts of Cotlandswick will also be available for hire by parents and carers for a range of functions for children, such as laser and football parties.

Any school interested in using the new pitches should contact Martin via GMCotlandswick@1life.co.uk

Cllr Brewster said: “It is the third new leisure facility to have opened in the district in the last three years. Please come down and join us on our special opening day so you can try out the new facilities for yourselves.

“All activities will be free of charge including fitness classes and a chance to try the new artificial pitches.”

The open day runs from 10am until 5pm.

London Colney Adventure World will be closing one week before the opening of Cotlandswick, to provide time to move equipment and train staff.

During this time all members are entitled to use other 1Life-operated leisure centres in the district.