Plans for a £31m leisure, business support and community facility in Redcar have received final approval from planners at the local authority

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council is to develop the facility on a site between Kirkleatham Street and Coatham Road, which will include a six-lane, 25m swimming pool, a training pool and a learner pool; a fitness suite; and a junior gym.

Other facilities at the complex - designed by Plus3 Architects and S&P Architects - include a dance hall and performance space; changing areas; and a sports hall.

Elsewhere, the project will provide business space for small- to medium-sized enterprises, as well as community facilities such as a debating chamber and registry office.

Sheelagh Clarke, the council's cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said: "It is great news that the detailed plans have been approved and we can make a start on creating a real attraction for Redcar residents and visitors."