Plans for a long-awaited £20m leisure centre have been put on ice because of the recession, it emerged today.

The uncertain economic climate has been blamed for the postponement of the project, which would have seen a new swimming pool, learning disability resource centre and community rooms replace the ageing Heston Pool.

Residents believed a new complex in Heston was long overdue, and since talks on the proposals first began a decade ago, the local authority has since pumped cash into leisure facilities in other parts of the borough.

David Blackett, chairman of Heston Residents' Association, said: “The seemingly inevitable decision not to take the project forward in the present circumstances is both disappointing and frustrating, even more so in view of the programme to invest in the leisure hubs at Isleworth, Feltham, Chiswick and Brentford.

“Heston also deserves investment, but there must be no compromise. There needs to be commitment and it needs to be both viable and sustainable.

“For too long there has been a lack of investment in the Heston area, an area that has continued to expand with a greater number of young people.”

Hounslow Council had been in detailed negotiations with developer Barratts, but senior councillors have now decided not to go ahead with an agreement after it became clear they would be unable to deliver it as it was proposed.

Council leader Peter Thompson said: “While it’s disappointing that we can’t take this forward any further in its present form, we have to be realistic.

“The deal on the table would not have seen anything being built for a significant time, and would have prevented any other plan being put in place.

"We are deeply committed to giving people the leisure facilities they deserve, so now we are going to take a look at what other options there are.”

A report outlining the council’s options will be put together and discussed by the executive later in the year.

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