A proposed new £3.25million swimming pool in Redbridge has been described as “a major step forward” for the borough.

There is currently a long waiting list for swimming lessons in Redbridge, but only one pool following the closure of a temporary facility at Wanstead Leisure Centre.

Now plans to create a six-lane, 25m pool and a gym at Mayfield School, in Pedley Road, Goodmayes, are set to be rubberstamped on January 5.

But the public will have a long wait for the new pool, with construction set to take two-and-a-half years.

A study is to be carried out to enable the community to access the pool on school grounds while maintaining the safety and security of pupils.

Chairman of Mayfield School’s governing body, David Backhouse, said: “The school will support local authority officers in determining how best to fit a pool onto the school site.”

The only other pool in Redbridge is at Fulwell Cross Leisure Centre.

The council is set to contribute 2.75m to the project, with the rest covered by external funding.

Cabinet member for health, Wes Streeting, said: “This is a huge step forward for the borough and will deliver on our promise to residents who have waited too long for a much-needed new public swimming facility.”