Freemens Quay Gym, opening up again after it was closed due to Covid lockdown SILVERBIRD PHOTOGRAPHY EMILY CAREY PLANS to build three new state-of-the-art leisure centres across County Durham will move a step closer next week, supporting the county’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. Durham County Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve three preferred sites for the new build leisure centres in Seaham, Chester-le-Street and Bishop Auckland, helping to regenerate local communities and improve the physical and mental health of residents. The multi-million-pound plans are part of the council’s leisure centre transformation programme, which aims to develop more modern, innovative services in a sustainable way, better meeting the needs of residents and visitors and having a positive impact on communities.