Cardiff International Pool, operated on behalf of Cardiff City Council by Parkwood Leisure, is among the first in the UK to use a new invention by Birmingham-based hygiene and cleaning specialists Chemex International.

The company is supplying the leisure centre with biological cleaning devices which drop into gents urinals and can dramatically reduce water usage.

In the first six months of usage, the centre is reported to have used 2,507 fewer units of water - equating to a saving of £3,098 or the equivalent of more than £6,000 a year.

Chemex has developed a simple 'green' toilet block that uses natural bacteria and enzymes to keep urinals smell and blockage free and eliminating the need for flushing.

General manager of Cardiff International Pool, John de Maid said: "To shave £6,000 a year off one utility bill is pretty impressive. It is saving money as well as helping the environment by reducing demand for water."

In addition to sporting and leisure venues, Chemex says the device can be a money-saver for hotels, restaurants, pubs, schools and colleges. It has also attracted the attention of professional football clubs and is currently in use at Premier League club Stoke City's Britannia Stadium.

Image shows (left) John de Maid, General Manager Cardiff International Pool, together with Chemex Scientific Director Sean Derrig