A planning application has been submitted for a £23m leisure centre in Coalville, Leicestershire.

The plans include replacing the ageing Hermitage Leisure Centre with a modern, sustainable facility housing a health club with large, 125-station gym floor and indoor cycling studio, three squash courts, a clip and climb area, an eight-court sports hall, an eight-lane 25m swimming pool and a learner pool.

To be owned by North West Leicestershire District Council’s (NWLDC), the centre will be operated by the council's leisure partner Everyone Active.

NWLDC’s planning committee is expected to consider the application in October, with work likely to start on site before Christmas.

The plans were submitted in the same week as renovation work began at the council-owned Hood Park Leisure Centre in Ashby de la Zouch.

The work at Hood Park – estimated to cost around £1.2m – includes the creation of a new 75- station gym, a dedicated group cycling studio, a new reception foyer including grab and go food, as well as refurbished squash courts and changing rooms.

“We’re pleased that the plans to improve leisure in the district are moving forward with such a pace," said councillor Richard Blunt, leader of NWLDC.

"I’m particularly looking forward to seeing the renovation at Hood Park, which will create a modern, fit-for-purpose centre with some impressive new facilities. Having learnt to swim at the outdoor pool many years ago it is great to see the improvements coming forward for the next generation.”