PLANS to rebuild Teignmouth's landmark Carlton Theatre have been given the green light.

Teignbridge Council's development control committee yesterday voted unanimously in favour of the development despite concerns raised by English Heritage over its 'overwhelming presence' and the fact it could prejudice the future of the neighbouring Grade II listed Riviera Cinema building.

The scheme is estimated to cost £6.8million and would include the demolition of the existing theatre, a new 224-capacity theatre, library, exhibition space, cafe, restaurant and bar.

A new semi-covered promenade would extend on to one lane of the existing bowling green, but the lost space would be made up at the opposite end of the green.

The new building would be three metres higher than the highest part of the current building with a flat roof making the building 'significantly bigger', while remaining within the South West Design Review Panel's guidelines of two or, only partially, three storeys in height.

Bovey Tracey ward councillor Anna Klinkenberg said the plans were 'imaginative', and said she didn't follow English Heritage's concerns over the development detracting from nearby buildings.

Cllr Mike Walters, from Kingsteignton East, said he had 'no qualms' about the development, adding: "It will replace the Carlton beautifully."

Cllr Mary Colclough, from Ambrook ward, said the new theatre and community centre was a 'very exciting project' that was 'long overdue'.

"It has been talked about for years and years and it will be a great improvement," she added as she spoke at the meeting in the authority's Forde House council chambers.

Development control committee chairman Cllr Howard Milton said: "This is a very exciting building, should it come to fruition, and I have nothing but admiration for the architects."

A vote was taken and the full 19-strong complement of councillors sitting on the committee showed their support for the scheme by voting in favour of granting the scheme planning approval.

The new plans were formally lodged with planners in December last year after two years of preparation.

The existing Carlton Theatre is in need of substantial investment and is considered beyond economic refurbishment.