CIVIC chiefs have unveiled £1.5m plans for a sports hall and pavilion providing state-of-the-art accommodation for clubs and groups in Eastleigh.

The project would see the demolition of the existing 30-year-old pavilion and other storage buildings at the Bishopstoke Road recreation ground and redevelopment with a two-storey sports complex.

Features would include a hall for a range of sports and training activities, a gym and studio, new changing accommodation plus a first-floor social area.

The council says the development would provide a base for local sports groups including Eastleigh Rugby Club, Eastleigh Tennis Centre and Club and the Capital Youth Club - replacing its existing premises nearby in Bishopstoke Road.

Leisure chief Councillor Alan Broadhurst said: "These plans are a further part of the new era for Eastleigh. They are exciting proposals which, together with facilities at Chestnut Avenue and Wide Lane, will mean a new generation of first-class sports facilities for the whole community."

The project will be funded from developers' contributions and the sale of land - as part of a blueprint for Eastleigh unveiled by the council last December which envisages building some 700 new homes and selling off council-owned sites, including allotment land.

Plans for the Bishopstoke project have been created using the latest three-dimensional design technology.

Architect Terry Luck, of Houseman Henderson, said: "This is the first project to benefit from full 3D computer modelling."

Bishopstoke Road playing fields comprises more than 31 acres and is the largest area of playing pitches managed by the council.

A council spokesman said if planning approval was given it was anticipated that a start could be made on site next spring.