A major consultation exercise was launched in January to decide the future of the derelict swimming pool site, which has lain empty for 20 years.

A MORI poll revealed that residents were split between plans for a discovery centre or a cinema and Richmond Council decided to take both forward to the next stage when the developer will produce detailed drawings.

Last week's report proposes a small centre with interactive displays focusing on Twickenham's historical links with the river and local environment.

It could include an arts facility with a 150-seat performance space for music, dance and community events, an exhibition area, a café and juice bar, a tower providing views across the Thames and an unspecified number of flats.

Jack Betteridge, who chairs the centre working party, said: "We are after a facility that will be unique to Twickenham."