THE sports hall of a council leisure centre will be closed during the summer for redevelopment.

The hall, at Sedgefield Borough Council's Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre, will be closed from Friday, July 20, until Monday September 10.

The work will include the refurbishment of the maple-strip sprung floor playing surface, new electronic basketball backboards and a scoreboard, retractable seating areas capable of accommodating more than 800 visitors, a new ceiling and upgraded lighting.

Manager Jean Burton said: "Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre is undergoing something of a transformation at present, with work forging ahead on the new Lifestyle Fitness Gym and other improvements to the building.

"The sports hall work is yet another step in upgrading the centre for the many diverse groups who use it, from five-a-side football sessions and basketball coaching to trampoline sessions, toddler groups and GP referral work."