NEW public swimming pools could be built in Billericay, Pitsea and Laindon.

Millions of pounds have been promised to make up to three new pools available to improve the fitness of families across the Basildon borough.

Tory councillor Kevin Blake, chairman of the leisure, culture and environment committee, said: “We’ll be holding a consultation into building the Billericay pool at Lake Meadows.

“The question will be what do people want, whether that’s an extension, to rebuild or to scrap the whole thing.

“We’ll be looking at a pool that’s between 20 and 25 metres.

“I’m expecting a high response in Billericay, they’ve been without a pool for a very long time, which has been frustrating for us and for residents.”

Estimates for the pool vary from £2million to £9million.

Plans are also in place to create new swimming pools for Pitsea and Laindon.

Mr Blake continued: “For Pitsea we’ve got around £2 million and if plans go ahead it’ll be more of an extension to the existing Eversley Centre, looking at a pool measuring about 20 metres. We’re still looking into the feasibility of the Laindon pool and looking at where it would be.”

The Tories have lost control of Basildon Council but the plans could still move forward even if other parties join a coalition to take control.

Labour group leader Gavin Callaghan said: “If it’ll give revenue to the council, allow commercial deals and create facilities for the community then it will be supported by Labour.”

A Basildon Council spokesman, said: “The council is working to launch a consultation on plans for Billericay pool and has committed to review future leisure facilities across the borough which will be reported to committee later this year.”