Plans for a new £8.75m leisure centre and swimming pool in Witham, Essex, have been put on show at a public exhibition held by Braintree District Council (BDC).

Scott Brownrigg Architects are behind the designs of the new facility, which is to be located adjacent to the Maltings Academy and is part of a council bid to enhance local provision. The new Witham centre will include a six-lane, 25m swimming pool and a learner pool with moveable floor, as well as a fitness suite and two dance studios.

A sauna and steamroom and two squash courts are also planned as part of the facility, which will replace the town's existing Bramston Sports Centre. It is anticipated that a planning application will be submitted at the end of this month, which could see work start by the end of the year. Completion is scheduled for 2013.

A BDC spokesperson said: "Braintree District Council is investing more than £8.75m into the town's new sports and leisure facility as part of its commitment to ensure residents across the district have access to sport and leisure opportunities." Image: Scott Brownrigg Architects