THE rapidly declining state of a town hall will be highlighted at a council meeting today.

Since it opened in 1889, the town hall has been Middlesbrough's main performance venue, hosting acts ranging from pop bands to classical music, as well as civic and academic ceremonies.

But lack of investment has left its appearance and facilities dated, leading to fears that it is being avoided by some artists.

In a report to Middlesbrough Borough Council's leisure scrutiny panel, Steve Chaytor, leisure and arts operations manager, identified weaknesses including poor toilet, catering and cloakroom facilities, restricted performance space, outdated and limited lighting and soundproofing and a poor marketing strategy.

The report follows a survey by consultants Commedia, commissioned in 1991 to look at revitalising public social life in the town centre.

The recommendations were included in last year's Single Regeneration Budget funding bid, but dropped when it was scaled down.

Mr Chaytor said the hall remained high on the agenda for the rejuvenation of the town centre and the development of a cultural quarter.

A review of its staffing and management structure was under way, he said.