CIVIC chiefs have confirmed the contractor who will build Winchester city centre’s £38m leisure centre, should the plans be approved.

Willmott Dixon has been selected to carry out the work following a bidding process.

As previously reported, the multi-million pound scheme would include a flexible 50m swimming pool, along with a learner pool and splash area, as well as – controversially – an eight-court sports hall.

The site will also feature eight treatment and therapy rooms, a gym with 200 stations, two large studios for exercise classes, a spin studio with around 60 bikes and a cafe.

Councillor Lisa Griffiths, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing and leisure centre committee chairman, said: “This is an exciting announcement showing real progress is being made to deliver the new sport and leisure centre. In practical terms, it means Willmott Dixon and the architects can now shape the design and share their considerable experience of delivering these types of facilities

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“The council has selected this contractor to ensure we can deliver the project on time and to budget when we have the planning green light.”

Willmott Dixon’s submission as part of the selection process included a commitment to developing apprenticeships.

Richard Pouter, Willmott Dixon’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to be Winchester City Council’s contractor of choice for this fantastic project. This new facility will create an inspiring and inclusive physical environment.

“We are proud to be part of the team delivering more than just a sports and leisure facility, but instead a scheme that will have a long standing and lasting legacy on those who use it and the environment it sits within.”

The scheme is yet to get planning consent. The proposal had been expected to go before Thursday's planning committee, but now it is not clear when the decision will be made.

Cllr Griffiths said: “The local planning authority (Winchester City Council) is currently considering the planning application and when they have received all statutory consultee comments and given consideration...they will be progressing the application through to a recommendation to the planning committee. This remains on target for Autumn 2018.”

Work is due to begin in spring next year and be completed in early 2021.