A running track used by one of the largest athletics clubs in the North East is to undergo repairs.
The council-owned track at Churchill Playing Fields, in Whitley Bay, is set to close for repair work in early March for an estimated three months.
Both the six-lane 400 metre track and the seven-lane 100 metre section will be completely resurfaced to bring the facility into line with new competition standards introduced by UK Athletics in 2019.
The work will also see the installation of a new perimeter fence and entry system to protect the track from misuse.
Councillor Sarah Day, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure, said: “It’s really important that we continue to maintain and improve our sporting facilities in the borough for residents and sports clubs to enjoy.
“This work will ensure that a valued community asset continues to provide opportunities in sport for local people and is a further sign of our commitment to keeping standards high at all our sports and leisure facilities in the borough.”
The venue is home to the 117-year-old North Shields Polytechnic Club, which has over 600 members, and specialises in track and field, road running, cross country, fell running, and triathlon for both junior and senior members.
John Sutcliffe, Chair of Trustees at North Shields Poly Athletics Club, said: “We are delighted that the council are supporting our club by carrying out this work. It will mean we are able to train and compete on an excellent facility that meets UK Athletics requirements.”
