YOUNGSTERS on an Andover estate may be able to take advantage of a special bus service which will enable them to reach the new Portway Youth Complex.

The idea was floated by leisure chief Ian McKie as councillors enthusiastically backed plans to operate the facility over the next five years, thereby increasing the chances of gaining more than £400,000 of lottery funding from Sport England.

But there were concerns from members of Test Valley Borough Council's executive about how youngsters might reach the complex.

"I an concerned about the ability of 6,000 youngsters to access the site independently and therefore its success will depend on the bus service provision and a safe cycle access," said Councillor Mark Cooper.

Mr McKie said the service could run from 4pm to 10pm and added that there was a cycleway in existence to this facility.

The plan for the facility was the flagship project of the 'Year of Youth' - but that was in 2000. Councillor Caroline Nokes said: "The project represents a massive step in the right direction and will provide worthwhile activities for the borough's young people.

"It may help to stop some of the social problems before they start because it will provide something for young people to do and somewhere for them to go."

The complex is to cost at least £76,000 a year to run in addition to £250,000 worth of capital funding the council must commit.