AMBITIONS to develop a youth zone in the town are back on track after a new site was identified for the £1.25 million-a-year facility.

The former Mr Smith's site had been earmarked for development before the historic site was ripped apart in a devastating fire.

The council, which is set to offer £3 million towards the project, has since discussed a range of options.

At Monday's executive board meeting members were informed of a new site on council land in the Stadium Quarter, close to the University Technical College.

The executive board unanimously approved a recommendation to 'offer in principle renewed support' to the project based on the £3 million capital investment.

The authority will 'continue to work in partnership' with charity OnSide and Warrington Youth Club to develop plans for the facility.

In a report to the board Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for children's services, said a 'young people's development group will help shape the offer' of the youth zone.

She added: "There are six youth zones open in the north west – they provide somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to.

"Warrington currently has 28,000 young people in this age range.

"The Warrington youth zone aims to establish a membership of 3,000 by the end of year one and attract 5,000 visits per month.

"They expect to maintain these figures into year two and start to increase in year three.

"This location in terms of accessibility for young people is deemed appropriate and would work well as the main hub for a youth zone.

"This land is owned by the council – however, the exact size and scale of land take is not yet fully understood or agreed.

"This site is suitable for a three/four-storey building to be constructed by OnSide to provide all the facilities required to operate a youth zone.

"The package of support from the council will unlock approximately £2.25 million further private sector funding and possibly other European and charitable funding.

"The council will not be required to find revenue support for the building and the youth zone activities.

"It is anticipated it will cost OnSide approximately £1.25 million to operate each year – the private sector will be responsible for this."

Members will receive a further report in May, with discussions set to continue progressing in the coming months.