ORGANISERS of a rally against the closure of a theatre and leisure complex were delighted after about 300 people supported the event.

Nearly 4,000 people from across the North-East have signed petitions following anger at the proposed demolition of Billingham Forum, on Teesside.

The rally, at John Whitehead Park, in the town, follows a meeting of Stockton Borough Council's planning committee in May, where councillors agreed in principle to the theatre's demolition and to replace it with a supermarket.

They also agreed to construct a replacement building at John Whitehead Park, which would include a swimming pool, ice-rink, library and health centre.

The application has been referred to the Government for a final decision, during which time the council will work with potential developers to try to save the theatre.

In the meantime, Billingham Action Team (Bat), which has been set up to co-ordinate the protest and advise objectors on what they can do next to fight the development, is calling for a public inquiry.

The group aims to stop the demolition plans going ahead and urge planners to go back to the drawing board.

Frank Crosby, of Bat, said: "This was a peaceful march for everybody, including children, people in wheelchairs and ladies pushing prams.

"We've had people from the whole area signing petitions, from as far afield as Guisborough, Redcar, Newton Aycliffe, Durham and Newcastle.

"People are particularly concerned about the loss of the theatre. Our team is working closely with all the affected people, including swimming clubs, Friends of the Park, Save Our Theatre and people from the ice rink.

"This is not a battle, but we will be very sad if these plans go ahead.

"The Government Office for the North-East has received 2,000 objections. But it's not up to the people of Billingham whether it goes ahead, it is up to the Government."

Published: 28/06/2004