CONSTRUCTION on the Qingdao International Badminton Center on Phoenix Island, Economic Development Zone started May 29.

    The center, designed by Gensler Design Firm of the United States, is to be completed in 2013.

    Situated in the north of Silver Beach on the Phoenix Island, the center will include a badminton stadium, a three-floor meeting center and 25 apartment buildings for coaches, athletes and other staff.

    The badminton stadium, occupying an area of 7,400 sqm, will have six courts and about 800 seats in the auditorium and a 25-meter Olympic-sized swimming pool underground.

    The Qingdao International Badminton Center will be a venue for the Badminton World Federation and China Badminton Association. The facilities will also be open to the public. (Chen Ting, Wang Ping)

    (Tina Chen, Cui wu)