THE proposed St Julians Community Healthy Living Centre in Newport has cleared an important hurdle.

City planners have given the thumbs up to a scheme for a sports hall with changing rooms and a community room.

Now the St Julians Healthy Living Association have to wait until later in the year to find out if a bid for nearly £1 million to build the centre is successful.

Although it is being located in the grounds of St Julians School in Heather Road, it is intended to be a community facility.

While pupils will be able to use the purpose-built sports hall, it will also be open to range of sports groups and other organisations running sessions relating to health and fitness.

The aim is to improve the health and well-being of people of all ages.

Facilities will be housed in a demountable building which will be placed at the rear of the school.

A report to the planning committee said there was a shortfall of sports facilities in the area.

Officers recommended the development was given consent subject to conditions.

Cllr Chris Jenkins supported the proposal. "It is much needed and an essential facility for the area."

Last week St Julians assistant head Graham Barker told the Argus it was hoped to tackle anti-social behaviour by providing activities for children during the evening as well as improving opportunities locally.

A grant application of £983,000 is being made to the Assembly's community facilities and activities programme.

It could take up to six months for a decision but phase one of the scheme could be completed quite quickly after that.

Mr Barker said a range of sponsorship opportunities were available. Anyone interested should contact him at the school on 01633 224490.