A £6M SCHEME to upgrade Barnard Castle's public hall is being opposed by the town council.

The ambitious project for the 150- year-old Witham Hall, in Barnard Castle Market Place, includes the construction of a 176-seat theatre.

But town council members are recommending that the plans be rejected because they feel that a disabled access ramp at the front of the building would be too large and out of character with the rest of the street.

Although councillors supported plans for the hall's refurbishment, they felt they could not recommend approval because of the access ramp.

Their concerns will now be discussed by Teesdale District Council, which will make the final decision.

The town council also had concerns about the need for on-site parking, problems with delivery vehicles and the lack of information about an aluminium dome that is planned to go on top of the building.

However, Jill Cole, a trustee of the Witham Hall and a member of the Castle Players, which would be one of the main users of the theatre, said she was disappointed by the council's decision.

Ms Cole said: "It is rather short- sighted of the council. Because of the Disability Discrimination Act, we have legal as well as moral reasons to ensure there is equal access for disabled users.

"Obviously the landscape of Barnard Castle is crucial and it has to be done as sensitively as possible. It is good that there is healthy debate and I hope these problems can be worked through."

The plans for the hall also include a dance hall, a cafe and bar, a toddlers' play area, a technology suite and a meeting room.

The local community has raised almost £18,000 to pay for the initial work on the refurbishment.