New leisure facilities for Westbridge Park

Plans to develop new leisure facilities, including a 25m swimming pool and fitness centre, are underway at Westbridge Park in Stone, Staffordshire.

Stafford Borough Council is launching a public consultation on the proposed development that includes plans for aerobic studios and new children and teenage play facilities.

The borough council said that the main part of the park's green space will be preserved and the open space and event space for Stone Festival, the Food and Drink festival and Bonfire night will be retained and improved.

The scout hut and canoe club spaces will be retained under the proposals and the Guides' meeting place improved.

The development would be funded through developer contributions from the sale of part of the park to a food store operator.

A number of exhibitions will take place in and around Stone during February as part of the public consultation to let people see the plans.

Mike Heenan, leader of the council, said: "We think this is a very exciting opportunity for Stone and the north of the borough, combining some excellent new leisure facilities at Westbridge Park while still being able to host annual events such as the Stone Festival, Food and Drink Festival and Bonfire night.

"Our vision is to improve the offer in Stone, not just for today, but for future generations - although this will only happen if local people want it to happen."