Residents' views are being sought on a project to revolutionise the delivery of public services in Mildenhall.

The Mildenhall Hub is an ambitious concept to bring schools and leisure facilities, including a new swimming pool, together with council, health, police, fire, library, pre-school, citizens' advice and Job Centre services on one site in Sheldrick Way, Mildenhall.

The project, which already has Government backing, is designed to reduce running costs of public sector buildings in and around Mildenhall – many of which would require major investment to renovate them.

Cllr James Waters, leader of Forest Heath District Council, said: 'Imagine how much simpler life would be if you could go for a medical check up, borrow a book from the library, go for a quick swim in a new leisure centre, and drop your child or grandchild off at school– all at one central location in the town.

'That is the vision for the Mildenhall Hub, but it is not just about convenience or saving you time. By investing in the hub now, we can save on our annual running costs and freeing up eight other sites in and around Mildenhall for other uses.

'The concept includes a brand new leisure centre with a larger swimming pool, fitness suite, sports hall, new learner pool, studio spaces, artificial pitch and new grass pitches, all of which would be shared with the existing sixth form and new school.'

A public consultation launched on March 7 is asking residents to comment on a development brief, which will be used as the basis for a planning application later in the year.

The document is available for viewing on the council's website at www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/mildenhallhub or at the Forest Heath District Council offices in College Heath Road, Mildenhall.

Comments need to be submitted by April 25. Please send to Mildenhall.hub@westsuffolk.gov.uk