PLANS for a sports centre with a swimming pool, nearly 2,000 homes and three schools in Didcot could take more than 10 years to complete.

Proposals for land north east of the town have been submitted and a delivery of 150 to 200 homes is expected each year, with construction starting in 2016.

The scheme would also feature two new primary schools, a new secondary school, and a community centre.

Managing director of developer Croudace Homes, which is behind the proposal, Richard Holmans said: “From the new schools and the new sports centre site, to substantial local transport improvements, this is a long-term plan to complete a high quality new neighbourhood in Didcot over the next 10 years or so.”

The application had stalled over a deal for South Oxfordshire District Council to buy land owned by University of Reading on which the sports centre would be built.

The university confirmed that a deal for the land to would include 25 acres of sports pitches would be reached on planning permission. The leisure facility could also include a swimming pool, sports halls and fitness suite along with tennis courts and a 300-space car park.

The university’s strategic estates director Nigel Frankland said: “We have worked hard with local residents and stakeholders, in particular South Oxfordshire District Council and Oxfordshire County Council, to put together a comprehensive and integrated scheme. It will not only deliver the new homes, but will also the supporting facilities.”