PLANS to create a multi-million pound education and sports centre are expected to be approved next week.

The £4.87m education project will see integrated early years and adult learning services under one roof.

Plans to demolish Darlington's Skerne Park Junior and Infant schools and build the community education centre will be considered by the borough council's planning committee on Wednesday.

The project has been scaled down because of financial problems and the centre will now accommodate 360 youngsters - 60 places fewer that originally proposed - to stay in line with falling rolls.

Working in conjunction with SureStart, the Neighbourhood Nursery and the Adult Education Service, the school will form a one-stop centre for the community.

It will include an integrated nursery with care facilities, 12 classrooms, small group teaching areas, a studio, a creative room, a hall and wireless information technology systems.

Sports facilities will include a junior football pitch, a multi-use games area, a running track and a cricket pitch.

There will also be more than 100 car parking spaces, with access from Ribble Drive.

Councillor Stephen Harker, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for education, said: "This is an exciting and innovative project that will enhance the delivery of education for all learners.

"In addition to the benefits to pupils and teachers at the school, this new facility will provide an extensive range of services for the local community."

If the scheme is approved, work is expected to start in October, with the school opening in September next year.