Members of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea's (RBKC) cabinet have agreed to commit £24.7m towards a new leisure centre for North Kensington, London.

A number of design and cost options for the leisure centre have been prepared by architects Studio E, which were considered alongside proposals for a new academy for the area.

The refurbishment of North Kensington's existing facility was discussed but was ruled out on the grounds it would cost £14m and only extend the venue's lifespan by 10 years.

Studio E, which was chosen to design the new leisure centre from a shortlist of six groups, has now drawn up plans for a building that is expected to last for 50 years.

Facilities are expected to include an eight-lane, 25m swimming pool; a teaching pool; and a leisure pool, as well as an eight-court sports hall. Plans are due for submission next June.

Details: www.rbkc.gov.uk

Image: RBKC/Studio E