Councillors are preparing a U-turn on plans for a new leisure centre.

A public consultation at the end of last year outlined four alternatives to replace Winchester’s River Park Leisure Centre, with the council’s preferred option being an entirely new facility.

That angered many residents because it involved a loss of green space.

Now it is understood city councillors will consider building on the existing footprint – an idea once dismissed as too expensive and not presented for public consultation.

Councillors will discuss the options at a Cabinet meeting tomorrow.