GYM users getting hot under the collar over ventilation problems at a Malvern leisure centre could lead to taxpayers getting another bill for improvements.

A £1.5m refurbishment was carried out on The Splash, in Priory Road, in 2003 - and Malvern Hills councillors clashed over a £310,000 overspend as costs spiralled.

But now the council is being asked to give the green light to more work because users say they are suffering from high humidity levels, despite the installation of new cooling equipment.

Experts sent in by the council have blamed the problem on moisture-laden air from the pool and saunas seeping into the fitness suite.

It could cost up to £110,000 to block the air - and the bill may have to be shouldered by taxpayers.

Councillor Clive Smith told a council meeting that problems with the original specifications meant the ventilation was not doing its job.

"We'll see what comes back from the consultants. Obviously we have to look at the capital implications and will have to take it from there," he said.

"It could be met by local taxpayers. However, we're exploring potential areas of alternative funding."

Keith Parry, head of housing and technical services, added that the figure was only a rough estimates.

He hoped if the work was approved, it would happen over a matter of weeks, during the evenings, to cause minimum disruption.

The matter is due to be

discussed at the council's executive committee meeting tomorrow.