Leisure centre revamp proposals announced

Plans to give a leisure centre in Essex a makeover have been announced.

The Brentwood Centre, which first opened its doors in the 1980s, attracts more than 350,000 visitors a year.

The funding for the £25m project would primarily come from receipts from the sale of Childerditch Industrial Park last year, Brentwood Borough Council said.

The plans to modernise and expand the venue would include new facilities and more outdoor space.

The council said it aimed to submit a planning application by March 2026 and hoped work would start later in the year if it won approval.

Labour councillor Gareth Barrett, the chair of the assets, projects and strategy committee, said: "Having grown up in Brentwood, I know the Brentwood Centre holds a special place in residents' lives, and this project reflects our determination to deliver a modern, inclusive and high-quality leisure and events facility that meets the needs of our growing community today and for generations to come."

The project would include a fitness suite, studios, spa and wellness facilities, and an improved cafe.

The council is also working with Everyone Active on a £1.1m project to refurbish the swimming pools and changing facilities. Work on that project is expected to start in January.

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.