PLANS for Winchester’s new £38 million sports centre will either be signed off or thrown out by councillors at a meeting today.

Winchester City Council’s planning committee are meeting this morning to discuss the proposal.

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.

For months, opposition Lib Dem councillors have been fighting the plans, focusing on the decision not to include a 12-court sports hall, which had originally been proposed.

If approved by councillors, work can get under way on building the new facility, which will replace River Park Leisure Centre as the city’s sports hub.

It is expected to begin in spring next year, with an estimated completion date of early 2021.

Last month, the city council confirmed the building work would be carried out by contractor Willmott Dixon.

Speaking at the time, Willmott Dixon’s managing director Richard Pouter said: “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.”