Aylesbury Vale District Council (AVDC) has agreed to proceed with proposals for a £6m overhaul of the Aqua Vale Swimming and Fitness Centre in Aylesbury.

FaulknerBrowns Architects has been appointed by the local authority to draw up the plans, which include a new on-site healthcare facility and new dry changing facilities. A new gym - double the size of the existing offer; a retractable roof for the outdoor pool and a refurbished changing village are also mooted as part of the scheme.

Meanwhile, a second water slide is to be added to Aqua Vale's swimming pool and a Combined Heat and Power unit will be installed to reduce energy costs. AVDC is still to make a final decision on funding for the scheme at its next meeting in December, although it is hoped work will be carried out in time for the 2012 Olympics.

Council leader John Cartwright said: We are determined to deliver a major remodelling and refurbishment of the site to ensure Aqua Vale offers the very best facilities to our residents."