AMBITIOUS plans have been unveiled to convert a former 1950s ballroom in the North-East into a music and dance academy.

Businessman David Cox wants to create an entertainment forum with recording studios, rehearsal rooms and an auditorium at the old Beehive ballroom, at Lingfield Point, off McMullen Road, Darlington.

It will be used to promote new talent as well as existing artists and will cover a wide genre of music including pop, rock, orchestral, opera, choral, classical and jazz.

There are also proposals to attract big name music stars to the venue.

Concerts, plays, dances with live bands, pantomimes, parties, fashion shows and musical productions will all be staged in the building.

David Cox, along with fellow partners Valerie Cox and Peter Robertshaw, is in negotiations with Darlington Borough Council and Lingfield Estates, to re-open the ballroom.

If the talks are successful and the planning application is approved, it is hoped that the Beehive will open its doors early in the New Year.

Mr Cox said: "We want to create somewhere with a welcoming and enjoyable ambience that can be used by all sections of the community, no matter what age they are or what music they like, and to make it affordable.

"There is a huge wealth of talent on our doorstep. We are going to give these people the opportunity, the first step on the ladder, and help to promote them and give them a chance to do what they enjoy.

"It will be brilliant for Darlington and the surrounding areas and a great opportunity for people in the town.

"The choice of venue was critical. I walked into the Beehive and I just thought it was perfect - it was screaming out to be used. It is an absolutely fantastic place with an amazing auditorium."

Mr Cox hopes to link up with dance and drama groups.

The building, which was constructed in 1949, still has many of its original features and has remained virtually untouched.

A bar, refreshment area and a bistro with a live music lounge are also planned.

The Beehive buzz - Page 3