A £17 million project could see a brand new leisure centre open its doors to the public.

Sevenoaks council has plans to replace the White Oak Leisure Centre, which opened in Swanley more than 50 years ago.

It says the site is “coming to the end of its life” because it’s expensive to run, uses a lot of energy and would cost too much to repair.

It has plans for a modern building with a swimming and learner pool, 100 station gym and rooms for classes and other events. This could include Tag Active, an arena-based strategy game, and Parkour, which involves negotiating obstacles in a man-made or natural environment.

It would be environmentally friendly - powered partially by solar energy - and have parking for around 153 cars, with an area for bikes too. Built in the grounds of the current centre in Hilda May Avenue, the outdated building would remain open during construction, with new houses built there to help pay for its replacement. During two consultations in 2016, 96% of residents said they’d like to keep a leisure centre on the current site, which would cater for the needs of all residents, retain a swimming pool and provide more facilities for young people.

Cabinet member for housing and health, Cllr Michelle Lowe, said: “We are really excited about the new plan for White Oak.

“It is an integral part of Swanley, and we believe these plans offer the best opportunity to continue to provide leisure in the town for generations to come.”

The council is holding a series of drop-in events to discuss the proposals, the first of which is at Swanley Market on Wednesday, March 6, between 10am and 3pm.

Further sessions will be held at White Oak Leisure Centre on Thursday, March 7 and Friday, March 8, from 10am to 8pm.

On Saturday, March 9, people can also find out more at Swanley Link in London Road from 10am to 3pm.

A planning application is set to be submitted later this year, which will also allow people share their comments. Visit sevenoaks.gov.uk/whiteoak for more details.