LEISURE chiefs are pressing ahead with the Thompson Centre refurbishment plan - despite being landed with a £1 million repairs bill.

A condition survey has revealed that the swimming pools need major work which could mean they will be closed for six months.

The total estimated cost of emergency work and planned improvements is now £4.5 million.

Burnley Council is applying to the National Lottery for some of the cash to pay for the modernising.

Leisure spokesman Councillor John Harbour said: "It would be foolish not to go ahead now."

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