AMBITIOUS plans to build a £1.25 million-a-year youth zone at an 'ideal' town centre site have taken a huge step forward.

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

But the proposed opening of Onside Warrington Youth Zone is now back on track.

On Tuesday at the Town Hall the executive board unanimously backed proposals to develop the site on council land in the Stadium Quarter, next to the University Technical College.

Members also agreed for the authority to contribute £3 million capital investment towards the project.

Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for children's services, was 'delighted' to deliver her latest youth zone report to fellow members.

She said: "We have now found the ideal site, in my view."

Council leader Cllr Terry O'Neill added: "I can remember in 2008 when the Labour Government had specific funding for youth zones.

"Unfortunately, we are having to pay for our ambitious town centre plan – years ago it could have been delivered through Government funding."

The opening of the youth zone is being planned to reduce anti-social behaviour across the town.

It aims to offer affordable activities in sports, arts, music and employability.

There will also be mentoring available for young people aged from eight to 19 or up to 25 for those with a disability.

It is anticipated that it will cost approximately £1.25 million to operate each year, which the private sector will be 'responsible for'.

Initial support totalling £750,000, from the private sector, has already been agreed for the first year of operation.

Onside will commission and build the facility.

The council will not own the building asset but will retain the freehold on the land.

The cost to build the site has been estimated at £6 million, of which the council is contributing £3 million towards.