Basildon Council have assured families they remain committed to plans for a new swimming pool in Pitsea.

It comes as the project has again had to pause as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 

Nevertheless, Jack Ferguson, vice chairman of the Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee, has vowed that bosses are still "absolutely committed" to progressing with plans for the new pool at Eversley Leisure Centre.

He said: "We have already completed a public consultation and found a viable site at Eversley. The budget for the development also remains in place."

Before the crisis unfolded in March, the next decision for the committee was to tender for the design and build, based on financial projections presented to them.

David Harrison, chairman of the Neighbourhoods and Public Spaces Committee, added: "To progress with proposals officers need to call upon the expertise of our leisure operator. Great progress was being made but the second lockdown has meant we have had to halt the project - but work will continue as soon as possible.

"There is significant work being undertaken by leisure governing bodies and the government regarding how leisure centres will reopen with the current restrictions and what impact that will have on the short to medium term on financial viability of leisure centres across the country.

"Once we have a clearer understanding of the potential impact on our leisure provision, and we are able to complete the work to take the project to the next stage with Everyone Active when they return to work in December, a report will be brought back to committee."