GOOD progress is being made building a long-awaited swimming pool in Dorchester, according to councillors.

And members of West Dorset District Council's executive committee have agreed to move the project a step further.

Community enabling manager Nick Thornley told the meeting: "I am very pleased to report we have had some very good progress over the last four weeks."

He said issues surrounding VAT problems had been resolved.

Members agreed to allow him delegated powers to agree a specification and funding for the role of pool project manager.

Council leader Robert Gould said the update was "very positive".

He said: "This is really moving forward now and I think that's extremely encouraging. I'm very pleased indeed."

Councillor Terry Farmer added: "We are into a downturn of the economy so it's probably a good time to set up a building because they will want a job of this importance."

Coun Alan Thacker voiced concerns about keeping within the £7 million budget for the scheme. He added: "I think at least we are moving forward which is very important for the community,"

The long-anticipated swimming pool development at Thomas Hardye School now has a timetable for completion - estimated to be May 2010.

The existing swimming pool at the school will remain open until the new pool next to it is completed.

A report by Mr Thornley said: "There is now a momentum behind this project and the partners will be working hard to keep this, to ensure delivery of the new swimming pool complex on time and within budget."

It said the role of project manager was likely to be a Dorset County Council appointment.