New images of how Cardiff Bay's �700m sports village will look. In pictures

Work on a new �50m swimming pool will begin by the end of the year.

The council said it would announce in the next few weeks a tie-up with an American developer for a residential scheme in Cardiff Bay.

This would provide funds for the pool, which will replace the Empire Pool which was demolished seven years ago.

Plans for the sports village include an ice rink, an arena, a canoe course and a "snow box" for sports like snowboarding..

A 400ft viewing tower is also planned by casino group Aspers as part of an entertainment complex on the site.

A 400ft viewing tower is part of the plans

They hope some of the facilities may be used in the 2012 Olympics.

The council said it was "lobbying hard" for a UK government go-ahead for a regional super casino as part of the development.

An independent panel started work on Monday to look at a preferred location for super casino, and will report at the end of 2006.

Richard Caborn, UK culture and media secretary, said: "The appointment of this panel shows there are no favourites or front-runners.

"The slate has been wiped clean and every local authority will have the their chance to make its their case."