The future of Worthing's ageing Aquarena swimming pool could be decided tomorrow.

Worthing councillors have called a special meeting to discuss a specialist's report on swimming facilities in the borough.

PMP Consultancy recommends that a new swimming pool be built on the Aquarena site in Brighton Road.

The Aquarena is 32 years old and, according to the council, becoming increasingly difficult to maintain.

The report recommends that a smaller pool be provided in West Durrington, possibly on the Worthing Leisure Centre site in Shaftesbury Road.

It says the new pool should be built immediately. It also suggests building it next to the existing pool so services are not disrupted during the 20 months' construction time.

The old building would then be demolished and the site sold for development.

The scheme is expected to cost about £9 million and the council is being urged to consider funding options including National Lottery cash or investment from leisure businesses.

An early suggestion to sell the site to a housing developer and build alternative facilities at the leisure centre has now been dropped.

The new Aquarena would have a 25-metre, six-lane pool, a learner pool, a diving pool, a fitness and health centre, better parking facilities and a creche.

The outdoor paddling pool will be kept and there are plans to provide room for up to 200 spectators.