A new ten-pin bowling alley and leisure facility is set to be created at a former swimming pool in Ramsey, Isle of Man, after operator Classic Bowling and Leisure was offered the lease to the site.

Ramsey Town Commission (RTC) has decided to offer the derelict building's leasehold interest to the operator in a bid to establish a new leisure attraction for the island, which will boast include a soft play and video gaming area and a café/restaurant. Richard Radcliffe, RTC's lead member for finance, said: "Much community interest has been generated over the future of this flagship site in the town. Our decision reflects views expressed through a petition from 1320 signatories presented to the commission last year calling for the building to be transformed into a tenpin bowling centre.

"This amenity will provide employment opportunities, appeal to young and old alike, encourage greater numbers of local and holidaying visitors to Ramsey and boost footfall to local shops and businesses." Classic Bowling and Leisure's Alan Price added: "The building is in a great location and lends itself ideally to tenpin bowling, an activity with a universal appeal."