PLANS to close Winchester's River Park Leisure Centre for three months have been backed by civic chiefs.

City councillors say the planned shutdown next year for crucial refitting is much preferable to a sudden breakdown of vital machinery.

The council is poised to spend a seven-figure sum revamping the centre and says the closure is unavoidable.

City councillor Therese Evans told the Cabinet: "This major refurbishment has always been in the programme. If it doesn't take place we run the risk of the building closing unexpectedly."

Cllr Evans said the planned closure was 12 weeks but the time was flexible. One uncertain factor was the amount of re-wiring work that needs to be done.

Steve Tilbury, director of community services, said: "Letting people know a year ahead is nothing compared with telling them 24 hours in advance of an event that the boiler has broken down."

When the Daily Echo reported the closure last week, some major users of the centre were unaware of the plans. Winchester Penguins swimming club is concerned that the shutdown could jeopardise its future.

Chairman Stuart Ward said: "It could be catastrophic."

The Cabinet agreed to spend up to £25,000 getting technical advice on the extent and cost of the works.

Councillor Kelsie Learney said improvements should be made to some of the facilities. "The changing rooms are not of a high standard and unpleasant in places."

Essential work includes new boilers, filters, removal of the flume and installation of new water features and a new pool roof.