A new multi use games area will open the way for new sports at a rugby club.

Maryport Amateur Rugby League Club has given up its existing MUGA to make way for a car park to be installed as part of a new transport hub being developed around the town's railway station.

Cumbria County Council's development panel is expected to give the go ahead today for the hub.

That means it will also approve a new MUGA for the club.

Maryport ARLFC spokesman Don Heaney said the new pitch would be on the site of the town's old tennis courts, on land previously owned by Allerdale council.

“We are delighted with the new pitch. The surface will be up to date and suitable for other sports.

“We had a woman coming to ask about hockey recently. She looked at our existing pitch and said it was not suitable at all. The new one would allow for hockey if there was any interest.”

He said the surface would be less slippery and easier to land on if there was a fall.

“The club is really looking forward to it. “

He said the only concern was that training for the new season begins in March and the club did not want disruption.

Flimby county councillor, Keith Little, who holds the transport portfolio, said the contractors have been told they must work closely with the club to ensure there was no disruption.

“Thomas Armstrong's has been awarded the contract. I understand there are some trees to be removed at one end and groundwork at the other. These will most likely be done at the same time. We will also ensure that the club has a access to a workable pitch throughout the contract,” he said.