Plans to invest £5.6m in improving Rossendale's leisure facilities have been submitted by London-based consultancy Mouchel on behalf of the local authority.

Local residents and user groups have helped to shape the plans, which now have been finalised by Rossendale Borough Council (RBC) and are set to be considered on 13 December. Proposals include the replacement of an existing swimming pool at Haslingden Sports Centre and the creation of new indoor and outdoor fitness facilities at Marl Pits, Rawtenstall.

RBC portfolio holder for leisure Jason Gledhill said: "We've been working hard with Mouchel and Rossendale Leisure Trust on the plans, and have listened when residents have told us their concerns." Rossendale Leisure Trust chair Norman Hauserman added: "It's exciting to see a project like this develop and we've been able to inform the development of the facilities so that they are good to operate as well as a fantastic facility to use."