A NEW home is needed for a plant nursery that sells discounted goods.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has confirmed it is reviewing the future of Kirkleatham Nursery and looking at alternative provision to sell its plants.

Councillors are to discuss the prospects for the nursery, which buys in 85 per cent of its plants from external suppliers, in the context of wider plans for the area, including development proposals for Kirkleatham Village.

The nursery has already been used as a temporary home for the borough's grass cutting operation this summer. But this is no longer possible because it conflicts with the activities in the nearby museum and owl centre.

Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said: "The future of the nursery and what it provides has been on an agenda for discussion.

"We are aware there was a plan to close it three years ago, but that option was never taken up.

"Plans for the village are gathering pace, including the publication of a draft master plan which already highlights the possibility of developing the nursery site for housing. If we are to go ahead with the closure of the nursery, it is imperative to make several points crystal clear.

"There will be no job losses, our highly-skilled horticulturalists will still provide us with a valuable resource in both experience and passing on their knowledge and there will be no loss of service.

"Preserving the service can be achieved by looking at the possibility of using places like Upsall Hall, where there are training opportunities for disadvantaged groups and individuals."