Facilities at the new centre will include a 25m swimming pool with seating for 300 spectators, a learner pool, an indoor tennis hall and a a sports hall built to national club standard for badminton, basketball and trampolining.

A gym, three fitness studios, four squash courts and a health spa will also on offer at the Leisurezone, as well as a lounge bar/restaurant, a daycare nursery and a café.

Abingdon-based contractor Leadbitter had been due to hand the complex over to the Harlow Gateway Partnership by Christmas last year, before an issue with the installation of fire dampers delayed the scheme.

The partnership comprises Harlow Council; Harlow and District Sports Trust (HDST); the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Homes and Communities Agency.

Harlow Council leader Andrew Johnson said: "[Leisurezone] puts Harlow back at the forefront of sporting provision in the region and is a tremendous asset to Harlow and the wider community."

HDST chair Pat Hay added: "The sporting and leisure opportunities at Harlow Leisurezone are absolutely outstanding and it will be one of the best facilities in the country. Harlow residents will be able to enjoy so many more activities under one roof."

Harlow Town Football Club, the East of England Development Agency, Mark Hall School, Harlow College and Science Alive are also supporting the wider £50m Gateway regeneration scheme.