Work has begun at the site of the first in a series of projects designed to transform swimming provision in Bristol.

The first scheme to get construction underway is the £8m revamping of Horfield Sports Centre, which is to add a 25m x 8-lane swimming pool, learner pool, 100-station health and fitness suite, studio, crèche and café. It will also see refurbishments made to the existing sports centre.

The facility is due to reopen in the spring of 2005.

Bristol City Council is also undertaking a £1m refurbishment of the swimming pool at Easton Leisure Centre and is in talks with a preferred bidder to provide a new dual-use sports centre at Henbury School as part of the Bristol Grouped Schools PFI project.

A 50m pool with leisure water and indoor sports facilities are also planned for Hengrove Park.