THE firm set to create a £40 million sports, leisure and entertainment complex on the site of Abbey Stadium has been announced, writes Becky Procter.

Redditch Council has revealed new partners Atlantic Property Developments will now deliver the project after former partners Bovis Lend Lease Ltd were dropped.

Further plans for the scheme, to include a snow dome, ice rink, theme bars, a hotel and a multi-screen cinema, have also been revealed.

A training centre focused on the tourism and hotel trade has been earmarked for the 28-acre site, which is expected to create up to 1,000 jobs and be open in 2004.

The council is working with partners, including Worcestershire County Council, to develop a suitable scheme for a bypass around Bordesley, which will serve the new development.