PARKING at Peterlee Leisure Centre will be made easier thanks to the creation of an overflow car park at the venue.

Construction work on the new car park began this week and will see the creation of an additional 18 spaces.

Later in the year, the existing car park will be reconfigured to create an extra 20 parking bays, nine disabled bays and a cycle shelter with space for ten bikes.

The improved pedestrian and vehicular access is part of a £2 million investment in the centre, which will include a brand new library, refurbished changing rooms and a renovated reception space.

All work at the leisure centre is set to be completed by spring 2019.

Cllr Carl Marshall, Cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We have listened carefully to the views of residents and we know access to the leisure centre was a key area people were keen to see re-developed.

“Local members Councillor llr Audrey Laing and Cllr Harry Bennett have championed these improvements on behalf of their community and we are looking forward to the benefits the updated leisure centre will bring once all work is completed next year.”

A number of consultations were held last year, where leisure centre users were asked for their views on what they would like to see included.

Following further consultation in February this year, the decision was been made to build a new sauna cabin within the pool complex, replacing the old facility which was located elsewhere in the venue.

It is expected that the new sauna will be open at the same time as the new library.