PLANS have gone on display for a multi-million pound development to revamp a once-stricken leisure centre.

Highworth Recreation Centre was close to shutting its doors for good after struggling with debt, but Swindon Council decided to write off the sum of up to £610,000.

A consultation started this week as the town seeks its share of a nearly £500m Sport England investment in grassroot sport over the next four years.

Residents will have their say in a public consultation, which runs until March 11, on the plans which includes a floodlit artificial grass pitch at the centre, a new cricket pitch, an informal running track and more parking.

There will also be the opportunity to comment on a proposal for an artificial grass pitch on the Warneford School site.

Chairman of Highworth Sporting Hub, Geoff Halls said: “This really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all sports clubs and people in Highworth.

“The Highworth sports clubs have a vision for sport in Highworth and it has had some positive indications of support from funders including Sport England and the Football Foundation.

“However, in order to proceed the vision must have general community support and that is why we are undertaking this consultation.”

All households will receive a questionnaire to complete and return by Freepost. There will also be two public drop-in sessions when questions can be asked at the Highworth Community Centre on Tuesday and the Highworth Town Council Community Rooms on Saturday, March 2.

The results of the consultation will be made public and presented to Swindon Council and Highworth Town Council.