COUNCIL officials in Hartlepool have been given permission to press ahead with plans for a skateboard park.

Members of Hartlepool Borough Council's community services and safety board have sanctioned the further development of proposals that could lead to the facility for young people next to the Mill House Leisure Centre.

However, it has been stressed that the scheme is at a very early stage and sources of funding still have to be identified.

Councillor Stephen Close, board chairman, said: "We were happy to give the go-ahead for officers to further develop their plans which could lead to a major new leisure attraction in Hartlepool.

"A number of young people have, to their credit, contacted the council and a group even visited the mayor to ask if we can provide such a facility. It is important we listen to them."

An unused five-a-side football pitch next to Hartlepool United FC's Victoria Park stadium is the preferred location for the £60,000 park, which would feature a range of skateboarding equipment, including ramps, waves and pyramids.

Initial discussions have also been held over the possibility of moving the facility indoors during the winter at the new Jesters in-line skating centre, in Seaton Carew.

Oliver Sherratt, head of sport and recreation, said: "We will now begin the hard work of attempting to secure the funds for this scheme."