PEOPLE in Derwentside are to be asked for their views on where to create two new sports facilities.

Derwentside District Council wants four new kickabout areas for young people to use for football and other outdoor activities.

The idea is to provide something positive for them to do, and to discourage anti-social behaviour among youngsters.

It has identified locations for two areas, but cannot find suitable places in two of its wards.

Nick Wiggins, acting head of leisure and executive member for strong communities, has written a report for councillors to consider later this month.

In it, he suggests creating such an area by erecting goal posts on the former tennis courts in the bounds of Sherburn Park, in Consett North.

Council officers have recommended two potential locations, Stockerly Road and Greenways, within Delves Lane, which require no further development other than the installation of goal posts.

But officers are to ask councillors and communities for help in finding suitable locations in Castleside and Consett East.

Mr Wiggins said: "Officers have been unable to find a suitable location for a kickabout area in Castleside.

A potential site adjacent to Drover Terrace has been discounted due to the steep gradient of the land.

"Consett East Ward is the smallest in geographical terms across the district.

"The council has limited land holdings within the Consett East ward, and it has not been possible to find suitable land for a kickabout area.

"Officers will continue to work with residents and the ward members to find suitable locations."

The council's leisure services department is responsible for 32 kickabout areas across Derwentside.

Some are purpose-built pitches created as part of large housing developments, while others have been created in response to requests from children, parents or ward members.

A number have been formed as a direct response to tackle youth nuisance, as a diversionary tactic, by civic leaders.

The strong communities scrutiny panel is meeting at Consett Civic Centre to discuss the matter further.

To suggest a suitable location for a kickabout area in Consett East or Castleside, call Mr Wiggins on (01207) 218524.