PLANS have been lodged for a new community hub in Southampton to bring a range of community facilities together in one place.

Southampton City Council revealed the plans to create the hub in Bitterne, bringing together health, fitness, library and community support facilities.

It is not known yet known where the new hub would be based, but the plans would bring together facilities that are currently separated by a dual carriageway.

Council leader Cllr Chris Hammond said: “This allows existing public services to work together in a more integrated way and enables much easier referrals between services.

“The facility will generate benefits for the health, fitness, literacy and employment of the local population.

“We also want to support the economic regeneration and sustainability of Bitterne District Centre.”

Cllr Eamonn Keogh, who represents the Peartree ward, said: “This is a chance for real regeneration of the Bitterne District Centre through investment in local public services, and could be a game-changer on so many levels.

“I’m really excited about what this project could deliver for the east of the city.”

The city council said the development could also create an opportunity for new homes and care facilities through the release of some of the land currently occupied by separate facilities.

Some of the new facilities would include new and improved sports and leisure facilities, including a new swimming pool, the latest library facilities, and new health services that would be shaped around the residents’ needs.

The ruling Labour administration also claims the hub would bring extra visitors in Bitterne, who will support local businesses, employment and economic regeneration.