����ý

Plans for a multimillion-pound leisure facility and community hub in south Cumbria have reached an "important stage", the council leader has said.

Plans are due to be submitted and Cumberland Council said it was in the process of appointing a contractor for the proposed building at Millom School.

The project, which will be open to the general public, is receiving funding from the government's

The council hopes it will improve local health and boost footfall in the town.

According to the plans, the leisure facility - to be built at the site of the local secondary school - will include a swimming pool, sports hall and fitness studios.

David Savage, chair of Millom Town Deal Board, said work had been going on "behind the scenes" to push the proposal forward, adding he "understands how important this project is to the community".

The chosen contractor will be responsible for completing technical and architectural drawings before the plans are formally submitted.

Mark Fryer, Cumberland Council's leader, said the scheme had reached a "very important stage".

"This is one of a number of exciting schemes we are taking forward across the Cumberland area which have the potential to make a significant difference to people's lives."

Follow ����ý North East & Cumbria on , and . Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.