Crowtree Leisure Centre in Sunderland is set to close making way for more shops in the city centre, pending council approval.

The facility, built in the 1970s, includes squash courts, trampolining, a bowls hall, and studios for gymnastics, dance and karate.

Subject to Cabinet approval in March the centre will be partially demolished to make way for an expansion of the adjacent Bridges shopping centre to improve the offer for shoppers in Sunderland and to create jobs.

Cabinet secretary councillor Mel Speding said: “Although Crowtree served the city well in its day and people have fond memories of their time there in the 70s and 80s, it has reached the end of its design life.”

“Its appearance is not in keeping with the regeneration plans already underway to make our city centre one that people can be proud of again.”

The council says it has spent £60m on sport and leisure offerings since 2004 and will work with Crowtree users to find alternative provision.

Work on site is expected to begin in May and will be finished by the end of 2013.