A TWO year closure of West Street Car Park began this morning as contractors prepare to start work on Andover's new multi-million pound leisure centre.

The town centre car park, which has a total of 51 spaces, was bordered off earlier today.

The facility will be used as a compound site for construction workers during the building of the new leisure centre.

It is expected to be closed for up to two years.

A spokesperson for Test Valley Borough Council, who operate the car park, said: "West Street Car Park will be closing on Monday 22nd May.

"This is to enable vehicles and equipment to be moved on site ready to commence initially the demolition of the Andover Leisure Centre’s swimming pool and sports hall and then commence the construction of the new leisure centre.

"West Street Car Park will be closed for public use for up to two years.

"The Lights will be business as usual throughout the building works although there will be changes to the access route to the venue from the town.

"These changes will be clearly signposted, including the location of alternative car parks. "This is the first stage of planned works as part of the new contract for our five leisure centres - Andover, Romsey Rapids, Charlton Lakeside, Romsey Sports Centre and Knightwood."