An all-weather multi-use games area is to be built in Skipton's Aireville Park, giving the area a valuable new facility.

The £70,000 development will replace the existing tennis courts in the park, and work should be completed in the spring, said Mick Cartledge, Craven District Council's head of economic and community development.

The existing tennis courts will be redeveloped to provide two tennis courts, two netball courts, two basketball courts and one five-a-side football pitch, on an all-weather surface with floodlighting, allowing year-round use. There will also be disabled access.

The games area is likely to be open until around 9.30pm. Charges have yet to be decided.

It is hoped that schools in the area as well as individuals will use the facility, largely funded by a £50,000 grant from the Foundation for Sport and Arts.

Mr Cartledge emphasised that the games area will not conflict with plans for the development of sports facilities at Sandylands.

"This site is more for leisure and recreation users, whereas at Sandylands it is for more clubs and regular groups," he said.

Members of Craven's community development committee welcomed the development.

Councillor Jean Harrison said: "I am delighted with this scheme. It is the way forward. It is nice for Skipton and it is helping the youth and keeping them off the streets."

And Councillor Beryl Beresford said: "The schools have been begging for facilities. A lot of them haven't got a place where they can play netball and I think it will be a good thing for all of the schools in Skipton."

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