British architecture practice FaulknerBrowns have been given a provisional go-ahead for the intensely debated Britannia Leisure Centre in London, UK.

The new multipurpose recreational venue – the details of which have been the subject of public discussions for two and a half years – has finally received planning approval from the London Borough of Hackney local planning authority.

Set to be the largest mixed-use development in the district, the Britannia project will feature a six-court sports hall, four squash courts, fitness suites, tennis courts, several football pitches and play areas, and a 25-metre swimming pool.

Additional facilities will include a new secondary school as well as up to 481 apartments.

Speaking on the announcement, Steve McIntyre, partner at FaulknerBrowns Architects, said: "The planning committee's decision represents a huge step forward in the delivery of the new leisure centre in Shoreditch. This along with a new school, residential accommodation and fantastic new public realm, demonstrates the commitment the council has in delivering high quality architecture and spaces for the residents of Hackney."

Hackney mayor, Philip Glanville commented: "Hackney needs improved leisure provision, hundreds of more school places and thousands of new homes".

He added: "What we’re proposing is necessary if you believe Hackney’s current and future generations deserve access to good schools and leisure provision."

Planning teams are still awaiting a decision from the Greater London Authority; if the building proposals are approved, construction on the centre could begin in 2019.

FaulknerBrowns was officially appointed leisure architect for the project in 2017.