Operator appointed for town's new leisure centre

The new leisure centre is set to open fully by 2027

An operator has been appointed to run a £20m leisure centre due to be built in a Kent town.

The facility is to replace the former Tides Centre in Victoria Park, Deal.

Dover District Council said it has appointed Everyone Active to run the new centre, which is due to be fully open by 2027.

Construction has begun, including work to demolish the old pool.

As well as a six-lane pool, it will also feature a gym, health and fitness studios and a toddler splash pad.

It also includes an existing indoor tennis centre.

Everyone Active, which runs 230 leisure centres for 69 local councils or trusts around the country, will take on the management of the centre from April.

Duncan Cogger, from Everyone Active, said: "The new centre will provide high-quality, inclusive and accessible opportunities for everyone to get active, from families and young people to older adults and those new to exercise.

"We look forward to creating a welcoming space that encourages people to be active, improve their wellbeing and enjoy everything the new facility has to offer for many years to come."