Construction is due in March, while the city selected future operator. New renderings are here, but contractor isn’t – ConstructionEnquirer.com informs.

Consortium led by Greenwich Leisure Ltd was selected as preferred bidder to carry out and operate the new York Community Stadium. On this opportunity new renders of the complex were presented.

The 8,000-seater (increase from initial 6,000) will be conjoined with a swimming pool, gymnasium, fitness centre, smaller sporting grounds and extensive retail/commercial development. The latter part will allow to shift most of its price to private investors, leaving the city with roughly a sixth of the £19 million price to pay.

Cllr James Alexander, leader of City of York Council, said: “The commercial element provides the vast majority of the funding for the extensive community facilities.

“We are creating a leading family leisure destination in the North of England and are doing so with minimal impact to the public purse by leveraging £5 of commercial investment for every £1 of council spend.”

No contractor has been selected so far, though it’s understood big names are interested in getting the contract. The list includes Barr, Carrillion and ISG. Construction was initially hoped to begin earlier this year, but will now commence in March 2015. The reason is the discovery of great crested newts at the site and procurement problems.