A derelict seafront site could be transformed into a multimillion-pound leisure hotspot inspired by one on Australia's golden Bondi beach.

The scheme, spearheaded by Brighton developer Copsemill Properties, would turn land at the former Peter Pan site in Madeira Drive into a swimming and sports-related business hub complete with office facilities, meeting rooms, a library and lecture theatre.

Features include an outdoor heated pool, gym and conference centre, changing facilities, cafe, further indoor pools plus cycling and running facilities for triathletes.

The proposal also includes a plan to create a boardwalk to facilitate access to the beach and sea for disabled users.

Copesmill Properties provided a picture of the Bondi Icebergs swimming pool in Australia to illustrate their project.

Council chiefs stress funding for the £3 million project would be through private investment, at no cost to the town hall.

Councillor Geoffrey Bowden, chairman of Brighton and Hove City Council's economic development and culture committee, said: “As owners of the Peter Pan site we have been marketing it for redevelopment as a leisure facility that would enhance the area and draw in residents and visitors.

“This development would not only be a centre of excellence for the increasingly popular sport of open water swimming but also appeal to families, fitness enthusiasts and beach visitors.

“Should the committee grant an initial consent, the developers may then seek planning permission following a public consultation. Final agreement for the project would still be required by the council's policy and resources committee.”

The proposal is further proof that an increasing number of cash-laden developers want a slice of the action in Brighton and Hove.

If successful, the multimillion-pound leisure site would be yet another addition to a city coastline dominated by an array of attractions including, once built, the i360 observational tower as well as the Brighton Wheel and our famous Palace Pier.

Until last year the site of the new project was earmarked for a luxury beach resort.

Australian firm Karma Royal Group was chosen as the preferred developer of the site after presenting the council with plans for five pavilions with a children's club, a year-round spa and health centre and a beach club and restaurant.

Similarly to the new Copsemill Properties project, an outdoor swimming and bathing area was also touted.

The council said the development would create 300 jobs and inject £10 million a year into the economy.

But in May Karma announced it had pulled out, accusing the council of imposing “detrimental” lease terms.

Brighton firm Swimmergy set to run the coaching and pool facilities of the new development

Rod Hart, of Swimmergy, revealed to The Argus that his company is joint-partners in the development with Copsemill Properties.He said the Bondi beach pool is an inspiration and the closest picture to their vision.

He said: “The focus of the development is to improve facilities for sea swimming in the city.

“The proposed development will include a 50m, eight lane open-air heated salt water pool, with swimming specific gyms and equipment - such as endless pools and training using Vasa Ergometer swim benches - a treadmill for swimmers.

“We propose to cater for Triathletes who already use the area but have had to make do without changing facilities, showers and secure bike storage which we intend to rectify.

“There will also be a fantastic restaurant space with amazing sea views, a possible venue for acoustic music and office and retail space for leisure and sports related businesses.

“We are all really excited to have been selected as preferred developer by the City council and hope to add a vibrant destination venue to this part of Brighton's seafront.”

What about Saltdean Lido?

The Saltdean Lido community project has just received a further £4.7 million in funding - three years after a 60-year lease was granted with a view to restoring famous art-deco facilities.

The one-of-a-kind bathing pool, which originally opened in 1938, was earmarked for redevelopment as flats.

But the grade II-listed site and pools are set to open to the public again as soon as this summer.

Rebecca Crook, of the Saltdean Lido Community Interest Company, said she was “not concerned” over the Madeira Drive plans.

She added: “Saltdean Lido has two key differences in that it is responding to local public demand for community facilities and amenities - it will be a genuine hub with a library, community spaces, events, a cafe and leisure facilities as well as the pool.

“Secondly, in terms of appeal, the majority of visitors from outside of Brighton will be visiting the lido for its architecture and history. We will run tours and have a heritage centre which a new build will not be able to compete with.

“We don't think competition is a bad thing. We wish them luck - but over the years there have been several schemes mooted for development on that site by the council and none ever come to fruition.

“Saltdean Lido pool has secured the funding with building works starting this month so it will most likely be open before the council even decide anything to do with the Madeira Drive project.”