A multi-million pound leisure complex is on the cards for Maldon.

Plans have been submitted to create a £2.5 million tenpin bowling and snooker centre in the town. The scheme would also include a restaurant and three bars. More than 50 full and part-time jobs could be created by the move.

The proposal for the land between Blackwater Leisure Centre and Maldon Town Football Club's ground also includes a play centre for children.

Plans for the land have been discussed by councillors behind closed doors up until now.

The two-storey building, which would be called Madison Heights, would have 25 tenpin bowling alleys on the ground floor with a snooker centre on the first floor.

An American-style restaurant and fun centre for children, including ball pits and slides, would also be included.

Businessman Michael Kirkham, who is behind the project, said he was hopeful it would be backed by district councillors.

Mike Ecart, treasurer of the district council, said it had looked at other tenders but had agreed to lease the land to Mr Kirkham.

Mr Kirkham, 34, already owns Witham Snooker Bowl and Rivermead Snooker Centre in Chelmsford. But he said this would be his biggest complex yet.

He said: "The council were considering other tenders for the land but I think they liked what I was proposing.

"I thought it was something the town needed that will cater for everyone. It's a good facility and it will bring people in from outside of the town."

He said the Maldon centre would also benefit tourists. If approval is given he hopes to have the centre up and running by next spring.

Maldon District Council will discuss the matter at a later date.

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