Plans to build a £17m leisure centre in Barnstaple, North Devon, have been approved by North Devon Council.

The council has not yet drawn up detailed designs, but there is potential for the scheme to include an outdoor pool, a climbing wall, gym facilities and an all-weather pitch.

The new centre would replace the existing leisure facility on Barnstaple’s riverfront and would likely adjoin the Tarka Tennis centre, which opened in 2003.

Some funding for the project could come from the sale of the existing centre and the council is discussing options with operator Parkwood Leisure.

Malcolm Prowse, lead member for the economy and regeneration, said: “This is an exciting time for Barnstaple, with a lot of investment being made in the town. The current leisure centre is not very energy efficient and has a swimming pool on the first floor. We have the opportunity before us to provide a top-class facility for the residents in the area.”

The council’s lead member for cultural services, Dave Butt, added: “This new scheme is an excellent opportunity that everyone in North Devon can benefit from. And with the relocation of North Devon College now increasingly likely, this is the ideal time to consider aligning the college’s new sports facilities with the development of a new leisure centre.”

The council hopes the new facilities will be completed by 2012.