PLANS to double the number of people taking part in sport in the North-East are at the heart of a drive to revive a scheme for a sports academy in the region.
Sport England's North-East chairman, Tim Cantle-Jones, has outlined plans to develop Gateshead International Stadium as one of nine regional centres for the English Institute of Sport.
The proposals form part of Culture 10, a Newcastle-Gateshead Initiative to build on cultural developments resulting from its failed European Capital of Culture bid.
Yesterday, Culture 10 was promoted by a light show at the Newcastle Keep.
It aims to promote the region on the international stage through a series of cultural and sports events, exhibitions, festivals and films, creating 24,000 jobs and giving the local economy a £1.2bn boost.
Mr Cantle-Jones said: "We want to work hard with Durham County Cricket Club to bring more internationals to the region, and secure the Riverside as a permanent test venue.
"We also hope to bring the Sevvy Trophy to Slaley Hall and to build on the region's athletics heritage at Gateshead International Stadium."
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