THE future of a Newport leisure centre under threat of closure looks brighter today as plans to save it gain pace.

Last month the city council announced it was reviewing the future of Underwood leisure centre.

It says the building needs urgent electrical and repair work costing around £1m, and closing it would save £140,000 a year.

But residents, angry that one of their few community facilities is in danger, have rallied to its defence.

Now community leaders say proposals to place the centre into the hands of a charitable trust look set to ensure its future.

They hope that within six months, the facility, which locals say is "at the heart of the community", will be safe.

Ward councillor Carole Atwell said: "We are working with similar groups of people with a view to forming a trust. The council has been supportive of this. I'm confident the centre will remain open."

In the hands of a trust, the centre would be eligible for grants to complete the electrical repair work.

It would also slash taxes so running costs would fall from £140,000 to around £100,000.

The centre currently employs 12 staff and has a sports hall, practice hall, fitness gym, squash court, bar, outdoor court and function room.

A nursery group of 38 youngsters also depends on the building.

Mrs Atwell added: "It's still early days, but it looks like there is a way forward. As long as the community continues to work together and support the centre then I'm sure it will be safe."

A council spokesman said: "We are working closely with representatives of the local community to see whether the centre can be operated as a voluntary non profit-making organisation.

"Although the closure of Underwood leisure centre cannot be ruled out, this would be a last resort.

"We are hopeful that the discussions with local representatives will enable the leisure centre to continue."