PLANS to redevelop part of a dilapidated seaside town will be discussed this week.

Work is being carried out to improve the appearance and appeal of Seaton Carew, but further investment is needed to help it become a major tourist attraction.

It hopes to achieve the Seaside Award, which would be a big asset in marketing it as a tourism destination.

Members of Hartlepool Borough Council's cabinet are being asked to approve plans to submit bids for funding from the Single Programme Coastal Arc, Heritage Lottery Funding and the Arts Council. The money would be used to develop the southern area of the resort.

The development site includes the listed art deco bus station, land to the seaward side of the bus station, the former fairground site and the coach and car park.

It is proposed to attract a developer to redevelop part of the site for tourism, leisure or commercial use.

A report to the meeting said: "The proposals for Seaton Carew will have a significant impact upon Hartlepool's tourism regeneration programme, involving significant potential investment in the resort, both public and private."

It would also affect the wider tourism economy of Hartlepool.

Although the bid for funding relates to one site, there are several elements within the project including: the renovation of the bus station as a key gateway into the resort and development of a destination ice-cream parlour to the rear of the bus station.

The report said: "Any development of the site will need to take account of the special historical character of the area. Specialist architects have been commissioned to design an iconic structure that will enhance the listed building.

"As a potential tourism development site, it is important to ensure the character and appearance of the overall resort is enhanced."

A development brief will be prepared to address issues such as car parking and it will be used to form the basis of marketing and development information for potential developers.

The cabinet meets tomorrow to discuss the plans.