Residents are to be consulted on an £11m makeover of Westcroft leisure centre – despite uncertainties about how the project will be funded.

A period of consultation on the major refurbishment was due to take place with a series of public meetings from May 10 to 12.

The building is more than 30 years old and will be closing for one year from September 30 to update the facilities to include an eight-lane swimming pool, large multi-sports hall, fitness gym and dance studio.

It is also planned to offer a beauty treatment suite, creche, cafe, IT facilities and library.

But Conservative opposition leader Councillor Graham Whitham said: “The projected cost has already escalated by £500,000 since January and now stands at £11.3m.

The administration sought to bridge the gap principally by stealing a £300,000 Section 106 pot specifically secured for facilities in Worcester Park and secondly earmark a separate 106 pot, which is attached to a planning application not yet agreed.

“Under the guise of getting further legal advice, the executive ducked the issue at its last meeting; this means residents will be asked to comment on a proposal which, in part, has no funding.”

The final meeting for all residents will take place tonight, May 12, at Westcroft leisure centre at 7pm.