Kier has been appointed by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council to deliver a new leisure centre and seven retail units of various sizes as part of a redevelopment programme for its town centre.

The two-storey building in the 7,082 sqm development will include a 25-metre swimming pool, alongside learner pool and a spectator area, with a barrel vault rooflight.

Stephen Nicholls, pre-construction manager for Kier Regional Building Western & Wales, said: “We are delighted to be working with Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council to deliver this important redevelopment programme, with a first-class leisure centre and retail units, that will provide a focal point for the town centre. “We will work with our local supply chain partners to deliver this project and, throughout construction, we will communicate with the local community, including residents and retailers, and share with them news and important milestones.”

It will be built on the town centre’s former multi storey car park and will also include a health suite, gym and multi-purpose rooms, as well as a café, reception and offices for staff use.

Kier will also provide hard landscaping works for the plaza, with rain gardens to provide a sustainable drainage solution.

Cllr Rob Jones, the Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, said: “This redevelopment will bring new activities and investment to the town centre, strengthening its commercial core and supporting more people to lead a healthy lifestyle while improving wellbeing facilities for the town and surrounding areas.

“The swimming pool, health suite, gym and library will attract many thousands of additional people into the heart of the town centre, including many families, every week.”

It is set for completion in spring 2022.