£3.45 million bid for new pool

The bid has been lodged with My Place Capital Funding which is linked to the Big Lottery.

If it is successful a new indoor pool, multi-use games area and leisure facilities could be built in the grounds of Heathfield Community College.

Heathfield Partnership chairman and county councillor Rupert Simmons said: 'We are not expecting a decision for some time but our bid does appear to fulfil all the criteria extremely well.'

Old Heathfield resident Don Rigg set up The Heathfield Area Pool Initiative, (HAPI) to campaign for an indoor pool in the town.

Intensive research resulted in a resounding yes-vote from the community.

The scheme was taken on board by the Heathfield Partnership and detailed plans were drawn up.

East Sussex County Council has approved the concept of a pool on the site but planning consent must be given before a grant can be given.

Cllr Simmons said: 'The former outdoor pool at the college was on its last legs in spite of great efforts made by the college itself and the parish council to keep it going.

'This is a big scheme and it is one that would prove of huge benefit to Heathfield, particularly for our young people, elderly and disabled people too.

'The county council has at least 15 other lottery bid contenders on the table so there are no assurances and we must keep our feet on the ground, but I am optimistic.'