A SCHEME to restore the heart of a community has received more than £272,000 in funding.

Work on the project in the Plains Farm and Humbledon area of Sunderland began after it secured £107,000 from the Government's sixth round Single Regeneration Budget.

It has received a further boost by being awarded more than £165,000 from the European Regional Development Fund, the Northern Rock Foundation, Sure Start, the Home Trust and the Home Housing Association.

Following the opening of nursery facilities at Plains Farm Primary School, in January, the former nursery building in the school grounds is being turned into a modern community centre.

It is expected to be completed in September and will include a meeting room, play area, offices and a kitchen.

It will also have an open plan area for group training and an outdoor soft play area.

With its proximity to the school and nursery, the facility is expected to play a significant role in the community.

Maureen Rooks, of Home Housing, said: "The facility will be part of a major milestone project supporting parents, carers, children and residents in the area.

"It will help to build relationships between various user groups, including those taking parent courses and early year groups.

"There will be employment advantages, too, as we hope to recruit a community officer and a part-time administrator, clerk and caretaker for the project."

The organisation formed to oversee the initiative is made up of representatives from Home Housing, Plains Farm Primary School's board of governors, the community and other organisations.