PLANS could be back on for a third swimming pool in Portishead after a U-turn on lease terms for commercial units in the town.

Aquasplash, run by Clevedon couple Glyn and Anne Davies, received planning permission to open an infant pool at Old Mill Road in 2012, but abandoned its plans after landlords refused to issue a lease on units beyond 2017.

The area, which is close to the site pinpointed for a future railway station, is designated for major redevelopment to coincide with the re-opening of the Portishead to Bristol railway line, which was projected for 2017.

However, after reports of delays on the railway project, landowners announced they would extend leases on the units to 2019.

As a result, Aquasplash has now submitted a second planning application to transform an empty warehouse into a pool and café. The warm water pool would be specifically for babies and toddlers up to two years, providing swimming lessons and aiding early confidence in the water. A spectator area, reception, showers and changing facilities will also be created.

As the venture is aimed at a very specific market, it is not expected to be competition for the existing swimming pools in Portishead.

The application follows a recent trend of leisure facilities moving to the former industrial area which include the Fitness Hub Gym and a pet day care centre.

While Aquasplash wants to take advantage of the new lease terms available, it is too late for some projects. Plans for an indoor skatepark in Old Mill Road will not be rekindled. The businessmen who were keen to take the project forward say they have since invested their funds elsewhere.