A date has been set for the start of demolishing a leisure centre and replacing it with a new multi-million pound facility.

The bulldozers will move in to pull down Splashes in Rainham to make way for a modern gym and large swimming pool on Tuesday, January 4.

Earlier this year, the council put the project - which could cost up to £16 million - on hold because surveys on the site in Bloors Lane identified issues with its structure.

The decision to spend the cash on the revamp was criticised by Labour councillors who highlighted how seven members of staff were given redundancy notices last year. Officers deemed it was not financially viable to keep on some employees while it was not in use.

More recently, council officers concluded that not going ahead with the demolition would pose a risk of it fully or partially collapsing.

They also felt it was the best option due to the costs of maintaining and securing the building while it was not open, during which time it could become an "eyesore".

It is hoped the new multi-purpose facility will be finished by the end of next year or the beginning of 2023.

A child-friendly pool with water features and large enough to hold swimming lessons is planned. Proposals also include an exercise studio/party room and cafe.

Ward councillors for Rainham North Martin Potter and Kirstine Carr (Con) said in a joint statement: "The old Splashes building will be demolished starting on Tuesday, January 4 to make way for the new centre.

"It will be a time of mixed emotions as many of you will have fond memories of taking the kids and grandkids, or in some cases you might be like Martin and have learnt to swim there as a child yourself.

"You may also have good memories of a morning or evening swim, or using the gym and attending exercise class. However, we do have a new modern centre to look forward to and you might have seen recently the architects have been appointed, following the procurement process, to work on detailed designs.

"Local residents in the vicinity of Splashes will receive letters about the works on the site and we have firmly requested residents are regularly updated."

The council has appointed Space and Place to undertake the project.