A MULTI-MILLION pound leisure complex for Darlington has been given the go-ahead.

The Feethams Leisure project will transform the former bus depot site in Darlington into a nine-screen multiplex Vue cinema, 80-bedroom Premier Inn hotel and a number of bars and restaurants, including Nandos and Prezzo.

The plans, submitted by developers Terrace Hill, were today (Wednesday, December 18) approved by Darlington Borough Council’s planning applications committee and work is expected to get underway next year, with the complex opening in autumn 2015.

Speaking at the meeting, chairman of the committee, councillor Paul Baldwin said: “This shows Darlington is very much open for business.”

Duncan McEwan, head of retail and leisure development at Terrace Hill said: “Since announcing our proposals for Feethams Leisure 13 months ago, we have been greatly encouraged by all of the positive feedback received, with the decision by DBC members reflecting the overwhelming public support for Feethams Leisure.

“The development will not only provide a much-needed leisure facility within the town, but will help to create over 500 jobs once completed and will generate significant inward investment as a result of the high number of out-of-town visitors anticipated.

“Over the coming months, we look forward to announcing additional national and independent operators to the scheme to ensure Feethams Leisure provides a unique and varied leisure experience for all.

“We would like to thank everyone that has taken part in the consultation and for contributing to the planning application approval.”