Plans to build a new sports hub, including cycle and BMX tracks and all-weather pitch on the site of playing fields have come one step closer to fruition after council planners have recommended they be approved.

Swindon Borough Council wants to built the new facilities on land at Moredon Recreation Ground in Cheney Manor - and under law the authority has to apply to its own planning committee for permission.

Councillors on the committee will decide the matter at its meeting on Tuesday, but they’ve been advised by officers to give the scheme the green light.

The report says there have been no objections by neighbours, the council’s highways department or rights of way officer.

The Crime Prevention Design Officer responded to the design: “I note from the lighting plan there is no lighting in the middle of the cycling proficiency area. This would leave it dark and provide hiding places. I would ask for lighting to be placed in this area for the safety and security of the users.”

The local parish council North Swindon reiterated the comments on the lighting but does not have further concerns except it hopes any fences are "cyclist friendly".

The report to the committee says: "The proposed development is located some distance from residential properties with the nearest being beyond open space and Akers Way. The lighting of the cycle track and £G pitch will allow for their use after dark but this will jot be during unsocial hours.

"An increased noise and light from the intensification of use on the site will bot cause unacceptable impact " on residents.

If the plans are approved a new pavilion would be built on the site, with a closed road racing cycle track and BMX circuit, a full size 3G pitch and new car parks. The exiting croquet pitches on the site today will be retained.

The borough council hopes to build the new facilities on the site of playing fields where use is dropping as part of its push to help people in Swindon be more active and healthy.

The report adds that the sports hub will help people be more active and healthy and provide regeneration for "an area in the higher end of deprivation."

The borough council will fund the sports development in part by selling off some of the existing land for housing.

A 1.5 hectare patch of land in the north east corner of the site has been earmarked for 60 homes, and will be offered for sale to private developers. A separate application will have to be made for the housing scheme.