CIVIC chiefs are looking to buy playing fields near Winchester's proposed new leisure to ensure they are used for sport.

Winchester City Council wants to purchase the Garrison Ground in Bar End amid interest from housebuilders and fears that development would hinder access to the £29 million facility.

Nearby residents are unaware of the multi-million pound proposals and potential impact on their playing fields, cabinet was told on Wednesday as it approved a public consultation on whether to refurbish River Park Leisure Centre or replace it on parts of Bar End.

The Guildhall wants to build the facility on what is currently a play area, artificial pitch, county council land and part of the King George V playing field.

The neighbouring Garrison Ground, east of Bar End Road, is owned by Tesco. The supermarket giant is understood to have set a price in the millions, reflecting its value to developers.

It was thought plans for a public buyout ended when the council ruled out building on that side of Bar End, but cabinet heard last Wednesday that officers are still trying to negotiate a lower price.

Cllr Stephen Godfrey, leader of the council, said: "We continue to try and purchase that land and make sure that it remains a playing field for the foreseeable future."

It came after a plea from Emma Back, chief executive of Winchester Sport, Art and Leisure Trust, who told cabinet: "The Garrison Ground needs safeguarding for sport and recreational use and protection from housebuilding, but it's also vital for access to the site, particularly for those travelling by bus."

Asked how much the council would be willing to pay for the land, Cllr Godfrey told the Chronicle: "We're not going to waste public money filling the coffers of commercial businesses."

"Even one as destitute as Tesco," added corporate director Steve Tilbury.

Meanwhile, St John and All Saints councillor Janet Berry urged cabinet to consult with residents in Highcliffe and Bar End over the proposals.

She said most residents were "unaware of the proposals and implications for Highcliffe" and suggested exhibitions be held for families in the area, setting "a new standard for consultation".

The meeting heard unanimous support for the Bar End project but sports leaders stressed the importance of top class facilities, including a 50m Olympic pool.

Sam Fulling, chief executive of Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club, said: "Whilst [a 50m pool] can support elite swimmers, this is just one small function and the public health need is strong. The ability to separate a 50m pool into smaller functions and change the depth mean that availability of pool time for both the publicans and private hire is significantly increased.

"Once a 25m pool is built there is no option to expand it."

The club spends around £150,000 a year on pool hire and struggles to get the access it needs, he added.

Cllr Godfrey said there may not be space to build a larger pool as well as the 12-court sports hall favoured by sports clubs.