FOLLOWING more than four years of delays, developers have announced a leisure centre's opening date.

The long-awaited Downham Lifestyles Centre, Moorside Road, will finally throw open its doors to residents on March 12 next year.

The announcement came after the new-look playing fields, part of the total £17m refurbishment project, were opened on August 21.

Residents can now take advantage of a new pavilion, landscaped parks, football pitches, a children's play area and dog-walking areas.

The project, which has suffered several financial setbacks since it was announced in 2002, is a joint Private Finance Initiative between Lewisham Council, management company Leisure Connections and construction company Alfred McAlpine.

When it opens, the Lifestyles Centre will boast facilities including a swimming pool, a library, a community centre and a health centre.

Lewisham Mayor Steve Bullock will officially open the playing fields on September 15.