WOODCHURCH Leisure Centre is set to become the borough's key aquatic facility under plans revealed today.

It will focus on improving swimming education as part of the Swim Wirral programme.

Cabinet member for leisure and recreation, Cllr Phill Brightmore, said: "This is exactly the type of innovative and forward-looking development of our leisure centres I want to see more of.

"Woodchurch is well-loved by those who use it and in a central location which makes it ideal to become the main focus of our swimming education – a key skill which is also an excellent form of exercise."

Cllr Brightmore also said a recent review on opening times and staffing at the centre has now been completed and proposals to close two mornings a week will not be adopted.

He said: "I know some people were concerned about a possible reduction in service at Woodchurch Leisure Centre and I want to take this opportunity to reassure them that this will not happen. "Woodchurch Leisure Centre will be remaining open as before, but we must encourage more people to use it.

"I understand that the centre has not seen the kind of investment other centres have benefited from in recent years and this concerns me.

"So I have asked that officers look at ways of improving the site and the services it offers to maximise its benefit to the local community – it’s vital that people understand this council is investing in the assets our residents value.

"However, the council has had to make cuts of around £250million to its budget since 2010 and must find a further £45million of savings in 2019.

"In the face of these budget pressures, tough decisions are necessary to ensure our leisure services are affordable, accessible and fit for purpose, now and in the future."