Young people in Stockton-on-Tees, north east England, are set to benefit from a new £5m young facility after plans for the development were given the green light by the local authority.

Stockton Council's planning committee approved the Norton Road scheme as part of efforts to regenerate the northern part of the town, which also includes a housing scheme and a new Academy for secondary school children. Funding for the youth centre development has come through the government's £270m myplace scheme, which aims provide a place for young people aged between 13 and 19 years old with a place to go.

The Stockton Council-led scheme is being carried out in partnership with A4E, the Children's Society, Five Lamps, Eastern Ravens Trust, Cleveland Police Authority and sexual health charity Brook. Alex Cunningham, Stockton Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Not only will the facility provide them with a place to meet friends and take part in different activities, it will also give them the opportunity to access support education and health services that will enhance their future life chances."

Formal approval is expected from the government within the next few weeks, and it is hoped the facility will be completed by autumn 2011.