Clive Booth (right) receives the keys to his new venue

The owners of Sheffield's new �15.7m ice centre have received the keys to the venue after work on the project finished two weeks ahead of schedule.

'IceSheffield' has been developed by Sheffield City Trust, whose operating arm is Sheffield International Ventures (SIV).

Money for the project has been provided by Sport England through �13.7m of lottery funding, with the final �2m coming from a loan underwritten by Sheffield City Council.

The 1,500 seat venue, near Attercliffe Common, contains two Olympic size ice rinks.

SIV Director Clive Booth said the early finish meant they can now concentrate on developing the operational side of the attraction.

"The building looks excellent and really does have that wow factor," said Mr Booth.

"The ice has now been laid and the rinks look enormous. I for one can't wait to get my skates on and give it a go."

IceSheffield will play host to community based activities such as ice-skating classes as well as professional performance sessions after it officially opens on 21 May.