A state-of-the-art multi-storey sports centre and skate park has been unanimously voted through by planning councillors.

The new building, on the former bingo hall site at the junction of Tontine Street and Dover Road, will be the first of its kind in the world.

Shepway development control councillors last night one after the other praised the £6 million project, which is by the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust and designed by Guy Hollaway Architects.

Cllr David Monk said it would be a “unique world class venue.”

Cllr Richard Pascoe believed it would attract young people from all over the country and possibly the world.

Cllr Philip Martin said it was a “magnificent project.”

The six-storey building will have urban sports such as skateboarding, BMX cycling and will have a climbing wall over three floors.

It will also become a new home for Folkestone Boxing Club.

The Trust wants the centre to be completed in time for next year’s Folkestone Triennial.

The project has already attracted worldwide interest with even tweets from American rapper MC Hammer.