The London Borough of Bexley has announced the opening of the new Europa Centre in south east London, which is to be used as a London 2012 Games Time Training Venue.

Olympic and Paralympic volleyball teams will use the new 3,460sq m (37,243sq ft) multi-sports facility, which has been designed by Formation Architects and Whitecode Designs.

ISG Construction and Stace were also involved with the scheme, which will also provide a new home for Europa Gym Club, Europa Weightlifting Club and Nemesis Boxing Club.

It replaces the clubs' existing base at leased premises in Erith and comprises a 36m x 43m gymnastic hall; a weightlifting and fitness studio; and physiotherapy and treatment rooms.

A mezzanine floor offers a multi-use space for functions, dance and martial arts, as well as a boxing studio. The London Borough of Bexley was the accountable body for the project.

Barratt Homes contributed land and funding through a Section 106 agreement for the new Europa Centre. Sport England and the Olympic Delivery Authority also backed the scheme.

Other partners included the mayor of London, through the £15.5m Sports Legacy Fund; the Amateur Boxing Association of England; British Gymnastics; and Cory Environmental Trust in Britain.

Council leader Teresa O'Neill said: "This project has secured a future for this important community sports club as well as being chosen as a London 2012 Games Time Training Venue for the Olympic and Paralympic volleyball teams."

Details: www.europagymcentre.com

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