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Construction of the centre, near Broxbourne on the Essex/Hertfordshire border, is due to be completed in 2010, two years ahead of the start of the games and is set to open to the public in the spring of 2011.

The centre will include a 300m competition course, with a 5.5m drop in height from the start to the finishing pool.听

It will have two courses; the elite course for the Olympics and an intermediate one to provide an introduction to white water canoeing and rafting for members of the public.

"The two courses make the venue exceptional, as not only can elite athletes use the centre, but also the general public, and that is important," said Team GB canoeist Laura Blakeman.

"It's going to be a brilliant venue, not just for the Olympics but for the future of British canoeing.

The site is expected to be completed in 2010

"The Olympics lasts just a few days but this venue will really raise the profile of the sport in the area and will inspire youngsters to come and give it a go," she added.

Shaun Dawson, chief executive of the the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, is excited that work has begun.

"The centre will provide local business opportunities for the west Essex area and also build a legacy that will continue beyond the 2012 games," he enthused.