PLEASURE Island leisure complex in St Annes could be transformed into an ambitious Victorian-style pavilion and exhibition centre if plans from owners Carr Royd Leisure are given the green light.

The centre, which would span more than 5,000 square feet, is the brainchild of Carr Royd Leisure boss Michael Taylor, and could cost up to £450,000.

The proposal was one of three the leisure group had in mind -- two of which have now been withdrawn -- and it has gained the support of the St Annes Town Centre Regeneration Partnership as well as a number of hotels in the area. David Wilkinson from Fylde Borough Council's planning department said: "Mr Taylor wants to create a multifuctional exhibition centre, complete with music venue and arts and entertainment centre.

"The centre could be home to a wide variety of events and, as far as we are concerned in terms of regeneration, it is something we think would be useful in the town."

It is hoped it will contribute to restoring St Annes Promenade to its former glory as a central attraction, and the style of the attraction will match that of the new lifeboat station to be built nearby -- which The Citizen gave an exclusive sneak preview of recently.

Mr Wilkinson said: "The facility would be invaluable to St Annes. Obviously it would have to go through the proper planning procedures, but it represents a belief in the town on behalf of Carr Royd Leisure and that can only be a good thing."