The new £7.5m Braintree Swimming Centre has opened to the public.

Designed for community use and for County and Regional ASA swimming events, the centre boasts an eight lane main pool which slopes from 1m depth to 1.8m.

The separate teaching pool varies from 50cm to 1m depth and has a ‘swim way’ connecting it to a fun pool, where there is a gently sloping ‘beach’ floor and interactive water spouts.

The latest UV water treatment is used to reduce the amount of chlorine, which is more friendly for both pool users and the environment.

Other facilities include a 300-capacity spectator area, a meeting room and multi-purpose room which can be hired for training and other functions.