The new centre’s facilities will include three swimming pools - an eight-lane 25m community swimming pool along with 130 spectator seating; a learner pool with a moveable floor and a separate shallow pool.

Other facilities include a 150 station gym, two multi-use exercise studios, a group cycle studio, two squash courts and a creche and café. There will also be two Changing Places facilities and improved access to outdoor changing facilities.

“Providing access to high quality leisure facilities is key in supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities,” said councillor Tracey Stock, executive member for health, wellbeing and communities.

“The new leisure centre will help meet the needs of the growing population in Leighton-Linslade, as guided by our Leisure Facilities Strategy recommendations, and I hope it will bring lots of enjoyment for residents.”

A planning application for the new building will be submitted this month and subject to approval, procurement of a contractor will begin, with completion of the leisure centre estimated to be in summer 2025.