New images show plans to build a “mini-water park” at a popular swimming centre.

The Aztec-themed Splash Pad in Maidstone Leisure Centre is set to have slides, water cannons and various interactive features.

It is part of a £2.5 million upgrade which will go towards improving the soft play area and gym equipment, as well as refurbishing the cafe.

The future of the leisure centre was discussed at a borough council meeting in December after fears it could be forced to close.

Councillors were told the cost of maintaining the swimming pool and gym had rocketed by £1 million in the last year.

However, in January the cabinet announced it would be extending its contract with Maidstone Leisure Trust and Serco Leisure and investing £2.5 million in upgrades.

The council has long-term plans to replace it with a new £60m complex once that expires, however.

Now, new CGIs show one of the first upgrades taking place at the site.

A colourful Aztec Splash Pad is set to be installed, with various slides, water cannons and interactive features.

“Think of it like a mini-water park for children of all ages,” a spokesperson for the leisure centre explained.

“Due to its shallow water depth, this attraction is even suitable for the smallest members of your family, as well as those with reduced mobility or a disability.

“The main Lagoon Pool will have the wave machine completely overhauled, the slides and bucket type features replaced, and small interactive features added around the circular pool.

“The pool surround will also be improved, completing our new Aztec theme.”

As a result, the original Flume, Penguin Pool, and River Run will be removed to make way for the new feature.

New glazing is also set to be installed between the Fitness Pool, Lagoon Pool and Teaching Pools.

This will improve the temperature of the rooms and give the leisure centre “greater environmental controls”.

An age limit won’t be implemented for the Splash Pad, but it is expected to appeal to families with young children.

Work will start on Monday, June 3 and is expected to take seven weeks to complete.

It is set to reopen around mid-July – ready to be used during the school summer holidays.

The centre has warned customers there will be some disruption during this time, with regular updates to be posted on its website.

It has been confirmed the Lagoon Pool can still be used in its current format during the May half-term.

Further improvements are set to be announced later this year.

This includes the refurbishment of changing rooms and lockers in December, as well as a bigger buggy park.