A network of 3G artificial football pitches and a new cricket training hall are among recommendations set out in a report examining the future of sports provision in the Scottish Borders.

Kit Campbell Associates in partnership with the Sports and Leisure Consultancy produced the research on behalf of the local authority - Scottish Borders Council (SBC). Recommendations include a review of swimming occupancy levels and the consideration of a new pool at the regional centre; support for clubs aiming to upgrade cricket net facilities; and a new athletics track and indoor facilities at the regional centre.

The possible development of a second closed cycling circuit; efforts to ensure a suitable specification for a hockey pitch at Peebles High School and a tennis training hall and court resurfacing programme also feature as part of the recommendations. SBC and Borders Sport and Leisure Trust are now planning to meet to discuss the proposals, while a conference will also bring together a range of sporting bodies from across the region.

Graham Garvie, the council's executive member for sport, culture and community learning, said: "The report highlights that the status-quo in relation to the current provision of sports facilities in the Borders is not a long-term sustainable option. "We will now look carefully at this report and its implications to ensure we can put in place a clear direction for sports facilities in the Borders which is a central part of our overall Strategy for Sport, Health and Physical Activity."