Demolition work is under-way at Splashes leisure centre, which is set to be replaced by a multi-million pound site.

Internal works and 'soft-stripping' of the site began last week and structural demolition began yesterday, with clearance expected to continue until the scheduled completion date of February 11.

Video footage of the demolition work

Following demolition of the building, contractors say hard material will be crushed and stored on site before the demolition material is removed, and timber hoarding will be erected around the site.

Heather Jupp posted a video on Facebook after watching the demolition begin, and said: "Sad seeing this building coming down as it was part of my childhood and my children's childhoods but I'm glad work has started and hopefully we'll soon have a nice new centre."

The planned new centre will contain a swimming pool with a range of features suitable for children and families, as well as a gym and exercise studio/party room, improved changing facilities and a café.

Last year issues with the building's structure meant the project to renovate Splashes was put on hold, and later in the year council officers concluded that calling-off demolition would pose a risk of it collapsing.

The revamp also drew criticism from Labour councillors who noted 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.