PLANS to convert Bournemouth’s historic Pier Theatre into an all-weather attraction have come under fire from the National Piers Society.

After the Daily Echo revealed that the Grade II listed building could face closure at the end of this summer, the NPS said it was “very concerned” by the £3million conversion proposals.

Spokesman Anthony Wills said: “Besides being one of only six remaining pier theatres in the country, it plays an important role in the town’s overall attractiveness to visitors.

“It is well equipped and has been well maintained, in addition to enjoying the amenities of the pier bar and Key West restaurant next door.

“It also has the seating capacity to enable shows to break even or even make a small profit. More importantly, it has an intimacy which is lacking at the BIC or Pavilion.”

He added: “We feel that a mixed programme of comedy acts, tributes shows, occasional film presentations and even bingo would help create a core audience and possibly lead to the setting up of a Friends of the Theatre group.”

Mr Wills described the pier toll charge as “not helpful” and warned that there were “many hurdles to overcome” before the planning application for an adventure sports attraction by pier operators Openwide International can get the go-ahead.

He told the Daily Echo: “The Theatres Trust must give their approval and they in turn may seek advice from the Cinema Theatre Association and ourselves.

“English Heritage may need to be consulted for what is a major alteration on a listed pier. Engineering tests will have to be carried out to assess load bearing and stress impacts on the pier supports.

“In addition there needs to be a study of existing sports and recreational facilities in the area.”

Mr Wills added: “The council should not underestimate the strength of feeling from local residents and businessmen at the loss of yet another cultural amenity in the town.”