DIGGERS are finally on site as work gets under way to build a new Community Stadium and leisure complex in York.

Once complete, the stadium and leisure complex, in Monks Cross, will feature an 8,000 all-seat community sports stadium, hosting professional football and rugby league games.

There will also be leisure facilities with a swimming pool, gym, dance studio, indoor and outdoor climbing facilities and a sports hall with spectator seating.

A commercial development on the site will include a cinema complex, with IMAX screen, five restaurants and up to three retail units.

NHS outpatient services will be offered from a community hub alongside a Explore library and a York Against Cancer retail unit, all due to open in 2019.

Councillor David Carr, leader of City of York Council, said: “We have always been committed to delivering the Community Stadium and accompanying facilities which will be a great asset for the city.”

Councillor Ann Reid, interim executive member for leisure, culture and tourism, said: “It is great to see workers on site so soon after we announced that all the necessary agreements were in place.

“As well as providing top class community and leisure facilities for our residents, with new jobs and significant investment the stadium will bring huge and long-lasting economic benefits to the city”

The contracts were signed last month.