Plans for the creation of new £6.5m sports and entertainment venue in Colwyn Bay have been given a funding boost by the European Union (EU).

Parc Eirias Events Centre has received £4.8m from the Welsh Assembly Government towards the creation of a new home for Rygbi Gogledd Cymru/North Wales Rugby. The funding package features contributions from the European Regional Development Fund; the Strategic Regeneration Area fund; and the Targeted Match Fund.

Plans include a centre of sporting excellence, which will feature an rugby pitch to Welsh Rugby Union International Standard; a 2,500-seat grandstand; and team changing facilities. A large, multi-purpose indoor centre will also be built, including an indoor pitch; a gym; conference and classroom facilities; and a high performance sports analysis venue.

Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones said: "Wales is now winning a world-wide reputation as a location for sporting activities - and this new Events Centre will help equip our country with the facilities we need to train the world beaters of the future." Conwy County Borough Council leader Dilwyn Roberts added: "This development is a cornerstone of our regeneration plans for Colwyn Bay, providing the ability to host a wide range of cultural, community and sporting events."

The scheme is being led by the council, which is also providing funding alongside the Welsh Rugby Union.