THE second phase of the £5.1 million redevelopment of Cwmbran stadium is under way - and the new-look building is due to open its doors in May 2002.

The work at Cwmbran Stadium will bring it up to International World Athletics Foundation standard.

The external refurbishment, including stripping the grandstand and installing new seats and fittings, has now been completed.

The new, synthetic, all-weather pitch is also finished.

And phase two of the ambitious project got under way on August 20 with construction firm E Turner & Sons awarded the main contract for the arena. The work has been financed by £2.1million from Sportlot, £1.6million from the local authority and the rest from private investment.

The main thrust of the current construction is a state-of-the-art new health and fitness centre.

Speaking at a site meeting, executive member of Torfaen council's leisure, youth and cultural services committee, Councillor Lewis Jones, told the Argus he was confident the new-look stadium would be the pride of Wales and boost the profile of Cwmbran.

"The stadium was certainly overdue a refurbishment and I am glad the authority in conjunction with other agencies is able to bring a facility for the 21 century. It will be a real boost for the town and the stadium will continue to be a internationally recognised venue for athletes across the world."

The fitness centre will include a spa suite and jacuzzi, aerobics suite, top quality training equipment, and weight, medical and treatment rooms.

A modern family changing room area will be built and existing changing facilities are set to be upgraded.

Adrian Brewer, regional director of E Turner & Sons, the Welsh division of contractors Willmott & Dixon Construction said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Torfaen county borough council on this important project."