Plans for new leisure and community facilities in Kingston have been given the green light.

With 5-a-side rooftop football pitches, two swimming pools with spectator seating, a children’s splash deck and climbing wall, as well as flexible community spaces, a cafe and much more, the scheme will deliver inclusive facilities fit for the 21st Century.

The scheme is a major part of the council's 'Transform Kingston' programme and sits at the heart of the council’s heritage-led regeneration of the town centre.

Improvements to the public space around the new complex will connect it much more effectively with the neighbouring historic library and museum, with the aim of attracting more residents and visitors to come and experience Kingston's unique history and culture.

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It will help regenerate and revitalise Kingston town centre at a time when the borough’s economy and its communities need it most, creating improved access through to the town's central shopping area.

Leader of Kingston Council Andreas Kirsch said: "Delivering this state-of-the-art, disabled-friendly leisure and community complex is one of our top priorities.

"We want all our residents to live happy, healthier, fulfilling lives, and having this fantastic facility right in the centre of Kingston, designed by award winning architects FaulknerBrowns, will help us achieve that ambition.

"I am also delighted that the new complex will link with the museum and the library celebrating our history and heritage."

Work to demolish the old, unsafe Kingfisher leisure centre will start this summer as preparations to deliver the new facility begin on site.