PLANNING applications have been submitted for a ‘New Life Centre’ which will serve as a community and performing arts venue.

If the plans are given the go ahead the centre will be built on Hartlepool’s Headland at St Hilda’s school.

The application follows a recent decision by the Council’s planning committee to turn down an original plan for the site.

The committee feared the new centre would attract crime and anti social behavior as well as having a detrimental visual impact on the surrounding neighbourhood.

Councillor Rob Cook, Chair of the Planning Committee, said: “Whilst the Planning Committee recognised the potential value of the proposed facilities, some of the members had serious concerns about the siting and design of the development, which had prompted a number of objections from neighbouring residents.

“These are highly relevant planning considerations and the Committee had to weigh up all the issues in order to reach its decision.

“The applicants have now submitted revised proposals and I would encourage anyone who is interested to view the plans and give us their views.

“This will help the Planning Committee to make a fully informed decision when it considers the new application in due course.”

Numerous people from the Headland area of the town have contacted the planning committee to express their disdain for the rejection of the plans.

In a letter to the planning committee one objector said: “The basis of your argument stands upon one idea, that the centre would attract yobbish behavior and other attention the town is trying to stamp out.

“However we must consider the positive aspects if the centre were to be built.

“It would provide a venue for gigs and competitions where young people with art interests can explore and experiment their ideas.

“Who’s to say we can’t put Hartlepool on the map for providing the best new musical talent.”

The new application can be viewed on the ‘Planning Online’ section of the Council’s website at www.hartlepool.gov.uk use the search section to find planning application number H/2009/0198.

Alternatively, the documents can be viewed at the Council’s offices at Bryan Hanson House, Bryan Hanson Square on Monday-Thursday between 9am-5pm and Fridays 9am-4.30pm. Any comments should be received by 20 May.