A COUNCIL is considering introducing a new policy on smoking in its headquarters and leisure centres.

If recommendations are approved this week, Sedgefield Borough Council, in County Durham, is to undertake three months' consultation before the arrangements become permanent.

Proposals include dividing leisure centre bars into smoking and no-smoking zones during social functions.

Customers will be asked on whether the bars should be entirely no-smoking or have designated smoking areas.

A screen is to be bought for smokers and erected in the staff canteen at the council's Spennymoor offices.

Employees wanting to quit are also to be given support.