A £7 million leisure centre will replace Dorchester’s ageing swimming pool under a plan agreed by local councils and the Thomas Hardye School.

The centre would boast a six-lane pool with public swimming at all times, a learner pool, spectator seating, fitness suite, studio and improved access for disabled users and those with pushchairs.

The facilities – needed to meet the needs of local schools and the growing county town - would be designed, built and operated by a private company and would open in 2009/10.

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West Dorset District Council Leader Robert Gould said: "We were moving towards a new pool on a site at Poundbury, but following a good deal of joint work with the Thomas Hardye School, Dorset County Council and the Duchy of Cornwall, we all see a new centre on the school campus as offering the best mix of affordability and facilities. There will be community access to both the main and learner pools all day, every day, which is what our customers tell us they would like.

"It now makes good sense to move forward together and provide improved facilities in a way that represents excellent value for money for local taxpayers."

Dorset County Council cabinet member for Children’s Services Toni Coombs said: “The new centre will be an excellent example of what can be achieved through collaboration and partnership. It will secure top quality sports and leisure facilities for local children, young people and their families at a cost that represents good value for money for all concerned.”

(JM/KMcA)