Dover District Council (DCC) has approved plans for a new £26 million leisure centre in Whitfield.

Proposals to build a new facility were given the go-ahead by councillors earlier this week and budgetary approval was granted on Wednesday, 21 September.

Plans include building a new 25-metre swimming pool with spectator seating for 250 people, a leaner pool, a four-court spots hall with two outdoor artificial football pitches and a climbing wall.

Other proposals include a 120 station health and fitness gym, two squash courts, three multi-activity studios and one spin studio, a sauna/steam room, a café, and free parking for up to 250 vehicles.

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The council is also exploring the possibility of developing a new spa facility at the centre.

The project costs include a full range of factors, including construction of the new facility, land purchase, and the demolition of the existing 40-year-old Dover Leisure Centre. The building will include a number of energy efficiency design features.

Cllr Trevor Bartlett said: "This represents a major investment in the future of the district, and comes as a range of regeneration projects is transforming the area. The proposals provide for a fantastic new facility, and mean we’re set to deliver a new leisure centre to meet the needs of residents now and into the future to support the growing population in the district."

(LM/MH)