An ambitious plan to create a new community sports hub in Cromer could be set move forward with a bid to buy a former golf practice ground on the edge of the town.

North Norfolk District Council leaders are set to consider the compulsory purchase of the site on Overstrand Road at a meeting on Monday.

Powerful cabinet members have been recommended to approve the purchase of the site, which would provide a base for Cromer Town and Cromer Youth football clubs.

The council announced a potential deal last week allowing the Cromer Town to remain at its Cabbell Park base for a further three years while the new sports facility is built – even if plans for a new £3.5m medical centre on its home ground are approved.

Now a report prepared for the cabinet makes clear that action is needed fast track the plans for the sports ground.

It recommends earmarking £50,000 to prepare a planning application in support of the purchase of the site.

A survey carried out last year showed significant local support for basing the sports centre at the 15 acre site according to the authority.

Corporate director Steve Blatch said: 'The council's intention has always been very clear and there is a demonstrated public preference for the Overstrand Road site to be used as a new sporting facility.'

The sports ground would include up to six pitches a clubhouse, changing room and car park.