A STATE-OF-THE-ART multi-million pound leisure centre is set to be built in the next year, subject to planning permission.

The centre will replace Woodley’s dilapidated Bulmershe Leisure Centre and will feature a sports hall, a 25m six-lane swimming pool, a 75 station gym, a teaching pool with movable floor and a cafe.

The new facilities will open in 2020 if planning is granted and the old centre will shut its doors for the final time on April 30, 2018.

Wokingham Borough Council are calling on residents to voice their opinions on what improved facilities would encourage them to use the new centre.

Councillor Norman Jorgensen, executive member for Sports and Leisure, said: “This state-of-the-art new leisure centre will be a fantastic facility for Woodley and the surrounding area.

“I encourage everyone with an interest in the centre to have their say on what facilities would most encourage them to use the new centre.

"It is very important that we get it right for the community.”

Bulmershe opened in the 1970s and has played a crucial role in building the community since, but Cllr Jorgensen believes the time is right to upgrade and the new centre will be a big investment.

He added: “We plan to open the new centre in 2020 subject to planning permission.

"This is another huge investment in leisure facilities in the Wokingham Borough, which will ensure everyone can live healthy and active lives.”

Residents can have their say and find out more about the proposals at the public sessions taking place on:

· Saturday January 20, 9am to 4pm, Woodley Town Centre precinct

· Sunday January 21, 9am to 4pm at Bulmershe Leisure Centre

· Monday January 22, Midday to 2pm and 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Bulmershe Leisure Centre

· Thursday 25 January , Midday to 2pm and 6.30pm to 8.30pm at Bulmershe Leisure Centre

· Saturday January 27, 9am to 4pm, Woodley Town Centre precinct