COUNCILLORS will consider finding a further £7m to build a new leisure centre – on top of the £3.2m that has already been earmarked.

Stockton Borough Council wants to build a new library, swimming pool and customer service point in Ingleby Barwick and has identified an area of land on the All Saints Academy school site, in Blair Avenue, as a preferred location.

The authority earmarked £3.2m towards the proposed centre in October and its cabinet committee will now be asked commit a further £7m when it meets on Thursday (February 19).

If cabinet approves the extra funding, it will be discussed as part of the the medium term financial plan to be considered by full council on Wednesday, February 25. If the funding is agreed, work could start on site early next year with the facility opening in summer 2017.

All Saints is Church of England Academy school and council officers have been in discussions with representatives of the Diocese of York and the school's governors about plan.

Stockton council leader, Cllr Bob Cook, said: “Stockton is a growing and thriving borough and a growing population means a growing demand for services, as well as a need for us to ensure we improve our infrastructure to keep pace with the change.

“Ingleby Barwick has experienced huge growth over the years but lacks local public leisure facilities, particularly local access to a community swimming pool.

"What we are proposing will address that gap in provision and we are delighted with the support we have received from the Diocese of York, the Academy and its governors.

"The financial commitment needed to turn this vision into a reality will be considered as part of our medium term financial plan.”

Cllr Ken Dixon, the council's cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, added: “We are looking at a centre with a 25-metre swimming pool, gym, fitness rooms, library and customer service point and associated parking. Our intention would be to consult with local people to identify the precise mix of facilities on offer in the building.

“Local people have been calling for this kind of facility for some time and I’m sure they will be encouraged that we are now making strides to deliver one.”

Headteacher at All Saints Academy, Kevin Mann, said: “We are delighted to be involved in a project which will significantly enhance the facilities available to the people of Ingleby Barwick and would intend to make good use of the facilities ourselves for the benefit of our students.”