THE proposed swimming pool for Durham City moved a significant step closer after a formal planning application was lodged this week.

Leeds architectural firm William Saunders Partnership submitted proposals for the £11m pool on Monday.

The 25-metre, eight-lane pool is planned for county council-owned land at Freeman's Place, next to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

The proposed building, which incorporates a £2m health and fitness suite, changing facilities and sports hall, is to replace the 70-year-old baths in Old Elvet.

William Saunders Partnership, which has designed pools for Alnwick, the Isle of Man, Leeds and Sheffield, has been working on the detailed designs since November.

Architect Andrew Bottomley said: "I would describe it more as a leisure centre, rather than just a swimming pool.

"It is a quality, contemporary design, and we're very pleased with the results."

Designs for the proposed pool were on display last month at the Gala Theatre and the old baths.

The detailed planning application is expected to be placed on the council's website - www.durhamcity.gov - on Tuesday.

A date has not yet been set for a decision on the planning application.