Derby City Council (DCC) has approved planning permission for the development of a new multi-million pound sports and entertainment arena near the city's Pride Park Stadium.

The 14,500sq m (156,077sq ft) venue has been designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects and will incorporate a 250m cycling track and a 1.5km (0.9-mile) outdoor closed cycle trail.

It is hoped work will now be able to commence in June, with a sports infield accommodating 12 badminton courts and hospitality facilities also included in the plans for the complex.

DCC project manager Mace submitted the proposals earlier this year and the new arena is to be built on the site of an existing park and ride facility. It is due for completion in early 2014.

"The arena forms the first phase of the council's Leisure Strategy that is planned to provide significant new facilities to the city," said DCC strategic director of neighbourhoods Paul Robinson.

"The arena is a unique design that will bring together a wide range of sporting and cultural facilities to the city and make Pride Park a leisure destination."

Details: www.derby.gov.uk