Work begins on Haven Banks activity centre in Exeter
Building work has begun on a £5.6m outdoor education and training centre in Exeter.
It is being built at Haven Banks and will replace an old activity centre on the city quay which is used by more than 25,000 young people a year.
The centre is being built and paid for by Devon County Council and will be run by Exeter College.
It was due to be completed in April 2013, a spokesperson from the authority said.
John Hart, leader of the Conservative-led county council, added: "This is major investment in Exeter which will only serve to boost the economy of the city."
Centre manager Ben Hedden said: "Although our present facilities have served us well for over 25 years, the new centre will offer state-of-the-art facilities which will complement and extend the courses and activities we offer."
The centre runs courses for activities including sailing, canoeing and climbing.