SPORTS and leisure facilities in Harrow are set to get a £36m facelift, described by the council as one of its biggest investments for the future of the borough.

Harrow Council has planned a new leisure complex to replace the current Leisure Centre, and a community centre will be built in place of Byron Hall, in Christchurch Avenue, Harrow.

It is proposed the centre will open in 2010.

Byron Park, off Christchurch Avenue, will have a new skateboard park and money will be spent on its refurbishment of the park if the plans are approved.

A new library is also proposed in Hatch End and land around these areas will be sold to make way for affordable homes.

Residents will have a chance to hear the plans being discussed at a cabinet meeting tonight, Thursday, November 8.

Councillor Chris Mote, council leader, said: "This is a great deal for residents in Harrow. Not only are they going to get some of the best facilities in London, but they won't have to pick up the bill."

He added: "In fact, by managing our land assets well and by saving money on our running costs, there will be something like £1m saved to plough back into services and keeping the council tax low."

Cllr Mote said the council will make sure the new leisure centre is built before closing the old one, to make sure there is no loss of services for the residents.

The draft plans for the centre includes a six-lane swimming pool, a gym, a creche, and a cafe.

Councillor Anjana Patel, portfolio holder for community and cultural services, said: "This will give residents leisure facilities that are fit for the 21st century.

"These fantastic buildings will give access to new amenities for all our local communities, as well as creating more chances for young people to take part in sports and leisure.

"This will cement our vision to create a vibrant cultural and leisure life in Harrow."

Anyone interested can attend the meeting on Thursday at 7.30, in committee rooms 1 and 2, at Harrow Civic Centre, Station Road.