Legacy: CGI image of proposed North Park community centre

Plans for a new public community centre in the north of the Olympic Park have been approved.

Work on the new timber-clad building and play area will start in July next year.

The centre will be open to community groups, while the garden - funded by a £1m grant from the London Marathon Charitable Trust - is aimed at youngsters.

The new building will also feature a cafe, reception area, offices and toilets.

London Legacy Development Corporation chief executive Andrew Altman said: “This hub will be at the heart of community life.

“It will be one of the most beautiful green spaces in London with wetlands, clean waterways and beautiful parklands for everyone to enjoy.”

The scheme was designed by erect architecture, after the firm won a competition. It will cover 1.75 hectares. The cafe will seat 72 people inside and a further 120 outside.

The North Park will re-open in phases from July 2013 - exactly one year after the Olympic Games opening ceremony.

Barbara Kaucky, from erect architecture, added: “We are confident that the facilities will become a go-to location for both locals and visitors from further afield.”