A £32m leisure development in Swansea, Wales, has been given the green light by the local council.

Following a revamp, the existing Swansea Leisure Centre will boast Britain’s first indoor surfing centre, an indoor waterpark, a multi-purpose sports and exhibition hall which will double as a music venue, a health spa, a 160-station fitness centre, a café bar, function rooms and sound-proof music rooms.

Chris Holley, leader of Swansea Council, said: “I’m delighted to see that there is confidence in what has been planned and that the plans have been approved.

“We can now continue developing the planned refurbishment, creating a 21st century leisure facility for the people of Swansea and visitors to the city.”

The centre – which is to be built by Kent-based construction firm Laing O’Rourke – will be owned and operated by the council, which will also fund the project.

Work is expected to begin next summer and open to the public in 2008. Details: www.swansea.gov.uk