The City of York Council (CYC) has approved plans for a new £9m sports complex as part of a wider expansion of the University of York's Heslington East campus.

York Sports Village will feature a competition-standard eight-lane, 25m swimming pool and a learner pool; a 100-station gym; and a full-size 3G astroturf pitch. Three further five-a-side football pitches are also planned as part of the new Space Architects-designed complex, which will be open to members of the public, staff and students.

A limited liability partnership company called York Sports Village will operate the complex, with any surpluses to be ring-fenced for reinvestment into the facilities. The masterplan for the development features a second phase to include more grass pitches, a 150-station computerised fitness suite; floor space for classes such as yoga; three treatment rooms; and a sauna and steamroom.

CYC (£3m) and the university (£5m) are funding the scheme, with the remaining balance to be provided by Sport England grant support. University vice-chancellor Professor Brian Cantor said: "In partnership with City of York Council we are determined to deliver what will be a fantastic sporting asset for our students and for everyone in the city."

Work is due to begin in the spring and it is hoped York Sports Village will open in July 2012.