Approval for £9m leisure centre in Nottingham
Plans for a new £9m sports complex in Nottingham have been given the go-ahead by the government.
The centre will replace the Victoria Leisure Centre in Sneinton, which closed in April.
The proposals, which include a 25-metre swimming pool along with retail space and fitness suites, were approved by the city council in June.
It had to be ratified by government as it is a council-owned building in a conservation area.
The plans were approved by Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.
Hundreds of people have campaigned to save the original Victorian baths, which date back to 1896.
The city council has said the new centre would retain some original features of the old building, including the clock tower.
Councillor Jon Collins, leader of the city council, said: "I welcome the Secretary of State's approval for this ambitious scheme.
"I'm pleased that he has agreed with us on the merits of the development and how it enhances the area."
The council hope the leisure centre, along with proposals to develop Sneinton Square and strengthen links to the city centre, would give the area a boost.
The new centre is expected to open in 2012.