A FLY-through video shows how a new £15 million leisure centre for the Spen Valley could look.

The video has been released as residents are being asked to share their views on the plans for the new Liversedge facility, which is set to be built on the existing Spenborough Pool site.

The plans include an eight-lane 25m pool, a five-lane 20m activity pool, a fitness suite, as well as exercise and cycling studios, after the scheme was given the go-ahead by Kirklees Council's cabinet in August.

Following the consultation, the authority is expected to submit a full planning application for the scheme.

While engagement sessions began at the pool earlier this week, there will be further sessions at local libraries in the coming weeks.

Cleckheaton councillor Andrew Pinnock (Lib Dem) told the Telegraph &Argus that councillors had concerns about the two year gap between the old centre closing and the new one opening but had been reassured.

"We did speak to officers about the fact that there will be no facilities for two years while the new leisure centre is built, but it's unavoidable due to restrictions on the site. It has to be built in roughly the same spot.

"Officers are confident that people will in general come back once the new centre is open, simply because it's in such a good location."

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He added that the Council hoped to gain planning permission by the autumn.

It has also emerged that an existing skatepark on the site will be lost in the redevelopment and an online petition has been created in an attempt to save it.

The next nearest facilities are in Batley, Mirfield and Brighouse and the petition highlights that the Spen skatepark is "known to be a lot better" than those nearby due to its mix of street and park elements.

Cllr Shabir Pandor, leader of the Council said when the drop-in sessions were announced: “It’s great to see the plans for this fantastic new centre. They really bring it to life."

He added: “The plans show an excellent community facility which will promote healthier lifestyles and complement the growth of the area in the years to come. As a council we’re committed to investing in our communities, both financially and in the wellbeing of the residents."

Further sessions will take place as follows:

  • Heckmondwike Library - Monday, March 25, 10am to 12pm;
  • Cleckheaton Library - Tuesday, March 26, 10am to 12pm - Thursday, March 28, 3pm to 5pm;
  • Mirfield Library - Saturday, March 30, 10am to 12pm - Monday, April 1, 1pm to 3pm.

For more details on the plans visit kirklees.gov.uk.