A WELL-KNOWN landmark regularly targeted by vandals could soon be pulled down in a bid to make the seafront more attractive.

The North Shelter, at Seaton Carew, dates back to 1936 and was built on reclaimed sand as part of a scheme to help alleviate unemployment at the time. It is made of reinforced concrete and fronted by the sea wall.

However, it has become derelict, with large cracks across the roof and stairs, and is thought to be structurally unsafe.

A public consultation held earlier this year showed 58 per cent of those surveyed thought the demolition of the shelter was a main priority.

Members of Hartlepool Borough Council's planning committee will discuss the proposal at their meeting on Wednesday.

A report to the meeting says: "The removal of the North Shelter will contribute to the objective of improving the environment by removing a building which is unsafe and is currently attracting anti- social behaviour.

"It will contribute to other regeneration initiatives being undertaken along the front of Seaton Carew, aiming to improve the image and viability of the area.

"There is also concern that, because of its condition, the disused shelter may present a continuing risk of injury to members of the public.

"Recently the shelter has become a focus for vandalism, graffiti and anti-social behaviour."

If councillors agree to the demolition, it is planned to retain the steps and paved area and create a grass embankment, the top of which would be level with the promenade.

Seating and railings in keeping with the surrounding conservation area will be provided on the promenade.

The report says: "The proposed seating would enable attractive seaward views to be gained, which are currently obscured by the top of the shelter."

Committee members are being asked to approve the application, but it will be sent to the Government Office for the North-East for a final decision.