LONG-awaited improvements to a Norfolk sports centre are one step closer after funding for an �80,000 development was approved.Plans to build an Astroturf-style outdoor space at Stalham Sports Centre would provide pitches for football, hockey and a range of other sports.

LONG-awaited improvements to a Norfolk sports centre are one step closer after funding for an �80,000 development was approved.

Plans to build an Astroturf-style outdoor space at Stalham Sports Centre would provide pitches for football, hockey and a range of other sports.

Colin Brzeczek, community sports manager at the centre, said: “It would mean we are able to offer a bigger, more diverse range of activities.”

The district council-owned site at the town's high school is used by students on weekdays meaning availability for sports clubs and energetic locals is restricted to evenings and weekends.

It is thought the proposed development, by increasing the number of activities which can take place at any one time, would encourage more people in the town to get involved with sport.

A number of years ago North Norfolk District Council set aside �100,000 in its budget to improve or develop the facility.

Failed attempts to use the money in conjunction with external funding, including a proposal for an Active Living Centre, have been made but so far the only improvement has been a �15,000 refurbishment of the sports hall floor.

On Monday, North Norfolk District Council's cabinet confirmed its support for the latest scheme and released the �80,000 needed.

Andy Kane, team manager for the Stalham Town Girls Under 14s Football Club which uses the centre for training, said Stalham was desperately in need of better quality facilities.

He said his team, which trains indoors in the sports hall once a week, needed more space. “We have 13 girls and we have outgrown the size and what we can do in the sports hall,” he said. “It was ok when they were little but now they are a bit older. This would help bring the team on. We can get outside on the grass at the moment, but to be able to invite teams for tournaments would be good.”

It is thought planning permission will be needed for the development. Council officer suggested the project should be started within the next six to 12 months to take advantage of the competitive prices currently being offered by building companies.