Steve Backley (right) has backed the sport development

The overhaul is so Medway can offer Olympic and Paralympic committees the opportunity to stage pre-games training camps for more than 20 sports.

Phase one will see workmen constructing the martial arts centre, as part of a refurbished sports centre.

Plans also include an eight-lane athletics track, a gymnastics centre, and upgraded swimming facilities.

The project to create the new Medway Park is being backed by Olympic and Paralympic medallists Steve Backley and Danny Crates, who were named Medway International Sporting Ambassadors earlier this year.

Councillor Howard Doe said it was "an exciting phase in our project to develop the growth of sport in Medway" that would also encourage young people to participate in sport and raise their aspirations.