A GROUP allocated half a million pound nearly two years ago to build a new leisure centre in Crook has reassured the public that the development is still going ahead, despite no work starting yet.

Crook Community Leisure was one of twelve projects who applied for £500,000 fund which was allocated by the It’s Up 2 U public vote held in February 2013.

One of the conditions of the It’s Up 2 You fund was that projects should be well underway if not completed within 12 months of the vote.

The group had originally wanted to build the new leisure centre at Croft Avenue in the town, but, after discussions with Durham County Council, are now looking to build on the authority-owned Peases West running track.

John Winter, chairman of Crook Community Leisure, said if it was up to him he would have started digging the day after they won the bid.

“It’s frustrating, and annoying,” Mr Winter said. “If it was up to me I would have started digging the day after we found out we’d been successful.

“We are hoping it’s not going to be too much longer, but in the interim we’ve had technical drawings drafted and are at a stage where we will be ready to submit a planning application to the council soon.”

Mr Winter claimed the delays were down to Durham County Council and the Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation (CISWO), a national charity which focuses on delivering community and welfare services in former mining communities.

However, Vernon Jones, chief executive of CISWO, denied that any delay with work starting was anything to do with the organisation.

“I can categorically say that if there is any delay in the development that it is nothing to do with CISWO.

“The council approached us and asked if we had any objections to the proposals and we said we did not. We haven’t has a single phone call, letter or e-mail since.”

Nigel Dodds, strategic manager, culture and sport, at Durham County Council, said: “Following the need to find a new site for the fitness centre, we carried out further consultation with the public.

“During the consultation issues were highlighted that could result in delays to work starting, however the general feedback from the consultation was supportive of the change in site.

“We are committed to work with Crook Community Leisure to progress the plans.”