Hartlepool Council and Tees Valley Regeneration are looking into the feasibility of refurbishing or completely replacing Mill House Leisure Centre, which could see a brand new facility built at either the Marina or Victoria Harbour site.

The council has set aside £3m for the project but aims to attract additional funding from other sources.

Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond said: “This presents a wonderful opportunity to provide top class swimming facilities and wide leisure provision for local people as well as attracting more visitors to our town.”

Consultants Capita Symonds are exploring the options.