Job creating leisure centre tipped for approval

Proposals for the development of a new leisure and community centre in Morpeth, which is estimated to create more than 100 jobs during construction, are expected to be approved when they go before planners next week.Developed by Northumberland County Council, the plans involve the erection of a new facility on the site of a former library on Gas House Lane, with the building incorporating a six lane pool, a learner pool, a spectator gallery, spa facilities, a sports hall, a gym/fitness suite, a café area, soft play area, as well as a library, customer services and adult learning services. It is estimated that the proposed development will create 111 direct construction jobs. This has the potential to create a one-off benefit of £4.6m in wage value during the construction period. The construction phase is also estimated to create 168 indirect jobs through local supply chains.The facility, which would replace the current Riverside Centre, is located on an approximately 2.7 acre site and is bound by the River Wansbeck to the south and to the north by Gas House Lane. It currently comprises an informal surface car park. A report set to be scrutinised by planners on 3 March recommends that the plans be approved, subject to conditions.