A FURTHER step was taken towards building a new sports centre for Wycombe last night.

Council bosses agreed that the development should be at the existing sports centre site in Marlow Hill, Handy Cross.

Wycombe District Council's cabinet last night backed the plans, officially dumping the option of having it at Cressex Island.

The final decision will be taken by all council members in May and it is hoped detailed plans will be the on the table for approval by June.

Proceeds from sale of land at the existing and two alternative sites - Compair in Hughenden Road and Cressex Island - will pay for building costs.

Meanwhile the eight pay and display machines at the sports centre are to be replaced, the cabinet agreed.

The machines, bought second hand in 2000, were "well past their sell-by date" said Councillor Jean Teesdale.

The new machines, which cost £32,000, will be moved to the replacement sports centre, she said.

For the 12 months to April this year it is expected the car park will generate £82,000, a report to the cabinet said.

All council car parks will eventually be pay-on-foot, where motorists pay when they return to their car, said Councillor Audrey Jones.