TAXPAYERS could foot the bill for a new £7million swimming pool and sports centre in Witham.

Two options are being considered by councillors, both of which would replace the Bramston Sports Centre, which was built in 1974.

One option would see a 25-metre pool built, with a ten-metre learning pool, a diving pool, a spectator area, a gym and squash courts, costing up to £7million.

A cheaper alternative would be to build a new pool without the additional facilities, which would cost around £3.5million.

The money would be spent just six months after taxpayers paid out £250,000 for repairs to the current sports centre.

Graham Butland, leader of Braintree Council, said: “The centre of Witham would get quite a boost.

“At the end of the day, you can have what you like if you want to pay.

“We could go up to £7million – you could double the costs. Then, of course, you have the extra running costs.

“It’s up to local people to input into it.

“If people go for all the extras, it will cost more to build, the running costs will be higher, and the more money it will require from council tax to do it.

“The swimming pool will be entirely funded by Braintree District Council. Money is ultimately coming from the public purse.”

Building work could start on the Bridge Street site as early as the second quarter of 2010, subject to planning permission and the appointment of consultants and contractors.

The project could be finished within 18 months.

A consultation process will be undertaken and will include cabinet members, Witham Town Council, Witham Local Committee, the Academies Enterprise Trust, and members of the public.

Detailed plans are to go on display in Witham Library and Witham Town Council offices, in Newland Street.

A decision could be made by the Braintree Council’s cabinet on July 6.