A tired leisure centre due for a multimillion pound renovation could be upgraded in the next three years – but the site would lose its slide and wave pool.

If the latest proposals are approved, it is expected the huge overhaul at Tides Leisure Centre in Deal will be completed by summer 2027.

However in a bid to save costs, a proposed splash pad area for kids has been scrapped, while the wave pool would be replaced by a 25-metre pool and the flume would also go. But the fitness and sports offering would be increased.

The developments come as Dover District Council considers the next stage in the £19 million project to overhaul the deteriorating and tired centre, being led by Alliance Leisure Services.

An officer’s report prepared for councillors says that moving forward with the development has proved challenging, but investment is needed to maintain a leisure facility in Deal.

Roger Walton, strategic director for place and environment, writes: “Members will be aware of the continued deterioration, noting that, for example, the flume is now closed and the inadequacies of facilities such as the fitness suite and changing areas.

“From the outset, this project has proved particularly challenging in finding a viable replacement solution for Tides Leisure Centre that meets local and strategic needs.

“The challenges posed by the ageing facilities continue and the ability to keep the existing facility fully operational is becoming more challenging as the facilities, equipment, and building continue to age and deteriorate.

“Through the work undertaken, it has been identified that the new Alliance Leisure Services proposal presents a more affordable and deliverable way forward.”

Proposals had previously been put forward to demolish the centre, or just the pool, but after a cabinet meeting in November last year, it was decided a new solution had to be found, as the council was suffering from an £8.9 million deficit to fund the extensive renovation.

To combat spiralling costs, all leisure water facilities have been removed under the new scheme and instead of pursuing reconstruction, existing spaces will be refurbished.

However, DDC still needs to tackle a reduced deficit of £3 million, with funding still needing to be agreed upon to make up for the shortfall.

Since April, the flume has been closed to the public due to an irreparable structural defect in the stairwell, estimated to cost £85,000.

The renovation includes adding more gym equipment, 12 toning tables, a spin studio, and two multi-activity spaces.

The indoor tennis centre and four-court sports hall constructed in a previous extension are being retained as both remain in reasonable condition.

It’s hoped the project will give the facility a 50-year lifespan if approved.

Tides in Park Avenue was originally built in 1987 and has been earmarked for redevelopment since 2020, but the pandemic initially stalled the plans.

The fate of the proposals, which are still in the development stage, is set to be decided on Monday (July 29) at DDC’s cabinet meeting.