FUNDING for improvements at a local community and sports hub has been approved by councillors.

Members of Basildon Council's leisure and environment committee approved the funding of £88,400 to support facility improvements to increase sport and physical activity at Hannakins Farm Community Centre.

Committee chairman Cllr Craig Rimmer said: "Hannakins Farm Community Centre is a hub for outdoor sports and activity including football, cricket and many other sports.

"As these facilities begin to reopen following the lifting of restrictions we must help them by funding improvements so they can go on to continue to provide vital settings that boost take up of sports and physical activity.

"This investment will bring back into use previously derelict and unused areas and meet the demand of local residents."

The improvements will include converting derelict tennis courts into a 5-a-side football cage with a synthetic turf pitch for young people. It will also enable investment into floodlighting, replacement of electric shutters to improve security of the facility and changing rooms lighting.