PLANS for a new multimillion pound leisure centre, library and customer service point in Ingleby Barwick are moving ahead with the appointment of a company to design the facility.

Ellis Williams Architects have been commissioned to design the new centre following a selection process conducted by Stockton Borough Council.

The new centre will house a proposed range of facilities, including a main and learner swimming pool, health and fitness suite, gym, community access library and customer service point.

Bob Cook, leader of the council, said: “We are delighted to have appointed such a first class company to oversee the design of this special facility which is planned to be developed on an area of land which currently forms part of the All Saints CE Academy school site.

“The early stages of the design work have begun and we will seek input from local residents that will result in the submission of a full planning application. We’ll also continue to work in partnership with the All Saints CE Academy and the Diocese of York on this project.”

Mark Evans, leisure sector lead at Ellis Williams Architects, said: “We are immensely proud to have been chosen to move this prestigious project forward.”

The design company’s recently completed projects include the construction of Ellesmere Port Sports Leisure Village, Northwich Memorial Court and the refurbishment of Wythenshawe Forum.

The facility in Ingleby Barwick will be operated by Tees Active Leisure who already operate three fitness and leisure venues in the borough on behalf of the council.