Sefton Council has approved initial plans for an £8m water centre, to be built on the banks of the river Mersey.

Proposals include the construction of a single-storey facility with water sports and coaching equipment, training and education suites, a conference room for up to 150 people, restaurant and bar facilities and transport connections.

The Royal Yachting Association is interested in the site becoming a 'centre of excellence' for coaching and 'Sailability' for people with a disability.

Work will now commence on how the scheme could be funded, what range of facilities would best serve the local community.

Sefton Council's head of economic regeneration, Brian Cookson, said: 'It is very, very early days for this project. We will now apply for funding from the Mersey Waterfront Regional Park to carry out a major feasibility study into the scheme. Extensive consultation with the public and other bodies would then take place before any decisions are taken. Details: ++44 (0)151 934 2720