As revealed in the Beverley Guardian, the hall's trustees want to demolish the existing building in Lairgate and replace it with a purpose-built arts and community centre.

They have submitted a planning application to East Riding Council, which has launched a public consultation on the plans.

Members of Beverley Town Council will consider their views on the scheme next Monday (May 19).

The views of town councillors will be key to the development, as the authority has agreed in principle to borrow £500,000 to help fund the scheme.

The money would be borrowed from the Public Works Loan Board and paid back by town residents, but it is reliant on the trustees finding the rest of the money from other sources.

Trustee Richard Kemp said he hopes both councils will back the proposals.

"What we are trying to do is deliver for Beverley a community hall which will be the foundation of a community spirit in the town - a focal point for people to meet and exchange ideas, for people to have space of their own and which will give a performance space which this town has not had for 150 years.

"We are sure that this building will deliver these things and we want everyone's support," he said.

"The town council and the county council are two agencies which have supported us in the past and we hope they will continue to support us in the future. Their support is absolutely crucial."

The trustees are planning to launch a public appeal to help fund the building if planning consent is granted.

East Riding Council has already pledged £750,000 towards the project from the controversial sale of Beverley's Picture Playhouse.

The proposals include an auditorium, meeting rooms, kitchen, bar, cafe and relaxation area.