A £6 MILLION sports arena going up between Neath and Swansea is set to bring big competitions to the region.

It is being built next to the Neath Port Talbot College Sports Academy at Llandarcy.

The academy was developed between the college, Llandarcy Park and the Ospreys, and the three partners are also behind the new, international-standard hard- court arena.

The arena is expected to be completed by September 2011 — to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the college. Principal Mark Dacey said the development was not only a major boost for the college but for Wales in general.

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"The Sports Academy is already recognised throughout Wales as a centre of excellence and has established a regional and national reputation for the quality of its academic, sporting and professional work," pointed out Mr Dacey.

Neath Port Talbot College uses the academy for most of its sporting provision, although there is some available at its Neath and Afan campuses.

But it is also open to the public, while the Ospreys use it to train.

The new two-storey arena will include a multi-functioning international hard-court hall, suitable for a range of sports including netball, basketball, badminton, tennis and five-a-side soccer.

Additional facilities will include changing rooms and classrooms, together with spectator seating.

"We will be looking to link up with the Sports Council of Wales and other organisations to bring first-class sport to the area," said a college spokeswoman.

"The new arena will establish Neath Port Talbot College and the Llandarcy academy on the national sporting map."

paul.lewis@swwmedia.co.uk