New pool building work starts

The centre will be revamped during the work

Work is due to begin on a new £8m swimming pool in Bristol.

The 25-metre pool at the Horfield Sports Centre should be open by 2005.

It will also include a learner pool, a fitness suite, creche and café.

A spokesman for the city council said: "The development of Horfield Pool is a key element of Bristol's swimming strategy.

"This aims to increase the number of people swimming by providing attractive and accessible facilities."

Plans for a 50-metre Olympic pool in a £20m leisure complex in Hengrove have also been given a green light, but still need full council approval.