PLANS have been submitted to demolish and rebuild a sports centre where Sir Bobby Robson played football as a boy.

An application for the redevelopment of Langley Park Sports and Social Club is being considered by Durham County Council.

Owner Alan Cassidy wants to transform the ageing clubhouse into a modern leisure centre for the community.

Sir Bobby, the legendary former Newcastle and England manager, who died from cancer in July, was born in Sacriston, but played football for Langley Park Juniors.

Councillor Joe Armstrong, who represents the Esh ward on Durham County Council and who grew up in Langley Park, said: “I remember my father taking me to watch the juniors because they had a cracking side.

“My father would point out Bobby Robson because he really stood out.

“The sports centre is part of the history of the village.”

In 2005, the park nearby was named The Sir Bobby Robson Park and, last June, Sir Bobby started a walk from the sports club that raised £12,000 for his foundation that raises money to help cancer sufferers in the North-East.

Coun Armstrong said he will be supporting the redevelopment of the club when it goes before the council’s north area planning committee.

He said: “It is an exciting development for the village.

“Health, fitness and sport is something we should all be interested in.

“It will help us tackle health problems, obesity and other social ills.

“We need an ambitious plan to replace the centre and that is what has been proposed. It is long overdue and very important.”

The plan includes building a new clubhouse, the relocation of the changing rooms, an allweather five-a-side pitch and accommodation for the owner.

Mr Cassidy said: “I feel we need to bring it into the 21st Century and this will be a real asset to the village.

“It is a good, safe environment for children, and people will have a clubhouse they are proud of.

“They will be able to use it for parties and gatherings after weddings and funerals at the church nearby.”

If planning permission is granted, work is expected to start next October and be completed by March 2011.