Expansion work is due to begin on the Avoriaz ski resort in Portes du Soleil, France this month.

The project includes the creation of two new resort districts with new accommodation complexes and a large new waterpark.

A new lift will also be installed, replacing the exiting cable car link between the resort and Morzine. Much of the new development will be completed in time for next winter, in December 2011.

The two new resort districts are Crozats and Amara. Between them they will add nine new Maeva and Pierre and Vacances residences containing more than 40 new apartments.

Amara, which will open in two stages in December 2011 and December 2012, will be home to a new spa centre with swimming pool, Turkish baths, a day nursery and more restaurants, bars and shops.

At the end of the next summer season (2011), work is due to begin on Aquariaz, am innovative indoor mountain water park facility.

The new complex will cover 2,000sq m and will feature a lazy river meandering through the centre of the building, a large pool, an indoor climbing wall, a 'water playhouse' and a sidewinder.

The facility, which is being developed in partnership with holiday park operator Center Parcs, will be designed as an eco-friendly resort and is scheduled to open in July 2012.