Warwick District Council has announced that Kier is its preferred contractor to complete the redevelopments at Abbey Fields Swimming Pool and Castle Farm Recreation Centre.

A final agreement is yet to be made, but Kier was the preferred candidate after the second stage of the council's procurement process.

Planning approval was granted in September for the demolition and reconstruction of the town's two leisure centres.

The work on both sites is due to start in the next six months and will last for at least a year and a half.

WDC's portfolio holder for culture, tourism and leisure Cllr Liam Bartlett said the council is "really excited" to be working with Kier after their "outstanding" application.

"We're really excited to be working with Kier, who have a strong track-record nationally for high quality, low carbon leisure projects," he said.

"Their submission was outstanding, and we are confident that they can bring with them their impressive eco-credentials and expertise in their field."

Cllr Bartlett also emphasised the council's obligation to find alternative leisure arrangements for residents and promised that "details of which will be announced next month".