A VILLAGE is to get a new community centre thanks to council-backed redevelopment.

Sherburn Hill's ageing centre will be replaced with a building on a new site that will be part-funded by the sell-off of council land under Durham City Council's Flourishing Communities scheme.

The area's councillor, Carol Woods, the cabinet member for environment and leisure, said: "A proper refurbishment would cost as much as a completely new building and we put it to the meeting that a new community centre could kick-start further regeneration opportunities in the area."

Council leader Fraser Reynolds said: "Sherburn Hill has seen a steady decline over the years and it is badly in need of investment, but it must go hand in hand with what the local people want.

"We've started our consultation with residents very early in the process and they will all have an opportunity to get involved in the development of the project.

"We'll also involve the local environment group because they are currently proposing an environmental improvement scheme for the area. We think we can bring a new multi-games pitch into the design and we know there is a need for an area for younger children that we will try to develop near the new community centre."

The Durham Villages Regeneration Company will build the centre, for which £400,000 has been set aside from the development of the old garage site at the top of Sherburn Hill.

Two infill housing developments in Front Street and redevelopment of the current community centre site will also contribute to the costs of replacement. Lottery and other funding could also be sought by the community association.