"We were very pleased with the feedback received at the meeting, particularly from the individuals and groups who will use the centre," says Morris Muter, managing director of Project Genesis. "This was our opportunity to demonstrate the tangible benefits that this £25 million development will bring to the people of Derwentside.

"There were a few questions over the facilities, access and funding, all of which we were able to respond to positively. The sports village will benefit from the excellent transport infrastructure already in place in Consett, as well as the road layout which was specifically planned to facilitate redevelopment of the former steelworks site."

The public also showed support for a clean internal and external design theme, which will help the building blend into its 40 acre site on the central plateau of the Project Genesis regeneration area, while also ensuring that the building stays fresh and modern.