CONTROVERSIAL proposals for a health and fitness club on the former Megabowl site in Greenlands Drive were poised to gain approval by councillors last night.

The application by Esporta Leisure was being considered by the planning committee after Kingfisher Centre owners Thornfield submitted formal objections to the project.

Thornfield claims the application was invalid as it proposed a leisure facility outside the town centre which could harm its 'vitality'.

Concern was also expressed about the possibility of additional traffic.

Esporta wants permission to install a swimming pool, dance studio, therapy centre and gym as well as a bar and sauna.

But in a report for councillors, officers stated the facility would not undermine the town centre and rejected arguments the application contravened planning policy.

The report said: "It is considered the proposal to vary the condition to permit use as a health and leisure club is acceptable and would not prejudice implementation of the development plan policies or result in undue harm to the vitality or viability of the town centre."

Thornfield is currently looking to incorporate its own health and leisure club as part of the Kingfisher Centre upgrade.

It is in negotiations with other leisure companies after Healthlands International withdrew its interest in the project.

A Thornfield spokesman would not comment on the Esporta application before the outcome of the planning committee meeting was known.