HOUSEHOLDS in Billingham are to be sent an information pack outlining plans for the regeneration of the town and giving people a chance to have their say.

Gateway to the Future outlines Billingham Partnership's policy on the proposed Gateway project, which will bring together leisure, health, cultural and learning facilities in a new centre.

Kevin Pitt, chairman of the partnership board, said: "The brochure introduces the partnership board and explains the thinking behind the board's policy and the reasons for the difficult choices it has had to make in order to ensure Billingham's long-term future and arrest the decline it has experienced in recent years."

Plans for the Gateway include an ice arena, a 25-metre swimming pool, library and Internet access suite, exhibition space, health centre, surgery and gymnasium.

The complex would be built in part of John Whitehead Park, with the proposal also including plans to protect and enhance the remaining 70 per cent of the park by landscaping.

The Gateway is the first phase of the town's regeneration. The second phase will focus on the wider development of the town centre.

The brochure includes a freepost form so residents can give feedback.

Further information will also be available at www.billinghampartnership.org.uk