The start of demolition work on a leisure centre which is due to be totally rebuilt has been delayed.

The bulldozers had been expected to move in at Splashes in Rainham on Tuesday January 4, but Medway Council said contractors were carrying out internal works prior to demolition.

An official date has not yet been confirmed.

Splashes is set to be replaced by a new multi-million pound centre containing 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 the project was put on hold because surveys on the site in Bloors Lane identified issues with its structure; and later in the year council officers concluded that calling-off demolition would pose a risk of it fully or partially collapsing.

Cllr Howard Doe, Medway Council’s portfolio holder for community services, said: “I am pleased that we will soon be taking the next exciting step towards developing a new sports centre in Rainham.

"Our contractor will begin demolishing the old centre in early January and the works are expected to be completed in February.

"We are continuing to work with architects Space & Place, who specialise in leisure swimming pools, on detailed designs for the new centre which will provide high-quality facilities for Medway’s families to enjoy.

"The new centre supports our Child-Friendly City aspirations and I am looking forward to seeing the plans progress.”