FUNDING has been secured for urgent works which could “revolutionise” a leisure centre in Christchurch.

BCP Council has agreed to pay £478,500 to upgrade the plant room at Two Riversmeet leisure centre.

The investment will be directed at a replacement plant, installation of controls, energy monitoring system and replacement of pool covers.

It follows “recent plant failures” at Two Riversmeet which have impacted its ability to heat the centre and its two pools.

The money for the works, from the council's Green Futures Fund, was approved by members at a meeting on March 8.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Jane Kelly, said: “This excellent use of the Green Futures Fund represents a really fantastic opportunity to upgrade and modernise the centre, bring a financial return to the council whilst also creating a platform upon which further renewable technology can be utilised in the future to further improve the efficiency, thus securing its sustainable future for our residents.”

Cllr Kelly took time to praise the success of Two Riversmeet, noting it welcomes around 6000 visitors per week, and has won the south-west England prestige award for leisure centre of the year for three consecutive years.

She added the new equipment would make savings of £63,000 per annum at the centre and would “revolutionise” the way it works.

Following a unanimous vote in favour by members, Council leader Cllr Philip Broadhead concluded it was a “really exciting time” for Two Riversmeet.

A report published by council officers ahead of the meeting highlighted the need for work at the centre.

It said: “Further plant failures will potentially lead to the centre being unable to operate and loss of revenue.

“Replacing existing plant with modern, more efficient plant will also save money in running costs and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change.

“Furthermore, new plant provides the opportunity for more long-term low carbon solutions to be added in future, such as heat pumps, which the existing plant does not.”