COUNCIL chiefs say a £1.4m sports hall being built at a Totton school is likely to cut crime in the town.

Extra facilities being provided at Hounsdown School will form part of a new scheme that aims to encourage young people to take up sport.

The hall will be open to the public for up to 60 hours a week under a community sports programme.

Now New Forest Council has agreed to help manage the new building in a move aimed at ensuring the scheme is a success.

The decision to enter into a partnership agreement with Hampshire County Council was taken at a meeting of the district council's ruling Cabinet.

A report to councillors said the hall, combined with existing facilities, would form the Hounsdown Community Sports Centre.

The report stated: "It is anticipated that the community sports programme will reduce crime and disorder in the area as the centre will provide a wide range of out-of-school sports opportunities for young people."

As previously reported in the Daily Echo, the new hall is scheduled to open at the beginning of next year.

Large enough to accommodate four badminton courts, the building will also provide pupils and local residents with facilities to play football, cricket, basketball and indoor hockey.

Council chiefs say the new hall will complement the school's existing sports facilities, which include a gymnasium and a 15m swimming pool.