LOCKS HEATH could have a new swimming pool by the end of 2004.

Leisure bosses revealed the plan after a survey of people in Locks Heath, Park Gate, Titchfield, Titchfield Common, Sarisbury and Warsash showed huge support for the scheme.

The new complex is likely to include a four-lane 25-metre municipal pool and private gym. A private contractor would be responsible for running it.

Housing developers in the locality will also be asked to make contributions to the facility which would be built on council-owned land north of Locks Heath Shopping Centre.

Almost half of 4,500 residents polled responded with an overwhelming 81 per cent in favour of a new pool.

Fareham council's executive is widely expected to recommend that planning officers apply for outline planning permission for the ambitious project when it meets on Monday.

One of the main stumbling blocks will be persuading government planners that the council should build on its open space.

If planning permission is granted the council will put the project out to tender for private contractors to submit bids to carry out the work.

The council's executive leader, Councillor Sean Woodward, said the swimming pool was closer than it had ever been to becoming reality but there were a few hurdles to be overcome first.

The council will carry out an assessment on the impact on Fareham Leisure Centre if a second pool is built in the borough.