There is an uncertain future for a major leisure centre project in Amersham, according to a council chief, as a major authority shake-up looms.

Last month the Bucks Free Press reported plans to replace Chiltern Pools in Chiltern Avenue moved a step closer after a “land swap” was agreed by Chiltern District (CDC) and Amersham Town councils to facilitate the scheme.

However, at a full meeting of CDC yesterday evening (April 11), leader Isobel Darby said she could not guarantee plans will go ahead under the control of a new authority.

This comes after the Government backed county council proposals to create a single-unitary authority in the county, rather than district council plans to create two unitary authorities.

Cllr Darby added it would be down for the new council to decide the future of the leisure centre.

She said: “Amersham is still going to need leisure facilities, so whilst the future is uncertain in terms of how local government will be formed in this area, we are continuing at the moment because we believe it is the right thing.

“And I sincerely hope that whatever authority comes out of the minister’s final decision, they will continue with it, but I cannot guarantee that, because I won’t necessarily be on that authority.

“None of us may, so no one can start making promises about this new organisation”.

If plans are given the green light, the new leisure centre would include an eight-lane, 25-metre swimming pool, a library, café, spa, gym, community centre, and exercise studios.

Cllr Darby added: “Plans are currently going ahead and those plans will obviously have to be reviewed at the time the full announcement is made by the secretary of state.

“There will be certain rules as to what expenditure should be made.”