British Swimming has kick-started its process of setting up a network of Intensive Training Centres (ITC).

The national governing body has written to a number of facilities with an Olympic-sized, 50m pool, inviting expressions of interest to work together with British Swimming.

According to Michael Scott, national performance director, the centres will be key to an overall strategy designed to maximise performance and provide sustainable success as swimming moves forward.

"Creating a world-class daily training environment is an exciting part of our overall strategy towards realising our long-term performance goals," he said.

"These centres will be the equivalent of a convenience store for swimmers and coaches – the aim is to provide everything they need in their development from the right amount of pool time to sports science support."

Scott's plan is to have centres that will improve both the numbers and quality of world-class athletes and coaches in Britain by providing for every aspect of their training needs. They will also provide a pathway of opportunities for athlete and coach progression.

Scott said: "The aim is to raise standards with each ITC required to work towards an agreed plan which will incorporate annual performance plan for both the athletes and coaches involved with each centre."

Pool operators will need to express an interest in providing the necessary facilities and services by 20 February 2008 before being invited to tender from 22 February.

A shortlist of candidates will be compiled by 6th June and with performance plans in place, it is the centres are expected to become operational by the end of 2008.