THE cost of building a replacement sports centre in Alton has whipped up concerns over the future of facilities on council-owned land in Chawton Park Road, as pressure is put on Alton Town Council to investigate the use of its local assets.

But there has been an assurance from Alton Town Council that the interests of existing tenants will be protected.

At a full council meeting, Alton councillors agreed to enter into preliminary discussions over the use of its land to help find a solution that would provide enough value to finance a new sports centre.

With a future life expectancy of five to 10 years, and no money in the coffers to replace it, East Hampshire District Council has asked the town council to come on board to try to find a way forward.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.