THE future of a fire-damaged shelter in Hartlepool is to be discussed by councillors next week.

The Redheugh Gardens Shelter was built last year following consultation with people living in the area. It was part of an improvement scheme for the Headland area, funded by the North Hartlepool Partnership.

The aim was to provide sheltered seating, but a few months later the shelter was severely damaged in an arson attack.

Earlier this year a consultation exercise took place when residents were asked to express a view on three options and to make alternative suggestions.

The options were to rebuild the shelter, using the same materials to restore it to its same appearance before the fire; to restore the shelter to its former appearance, but use steel for the roof rather than wood, to help deter vandals; and to demolish the shelter and cover the area with sandstone paving.

Ten residents chose option one, 107 chose option two and 235 chose option three.

A total of 55 residents also said that if the shelter was to be demolished they would like to see a windbreak wall with seating in its place.

Councillors will discuss the proposal next Tuesday.

A report to the meeting said: "Despite the original public demand for a shelter, following its arson attack there is now a clear majority of Headland people, who because of the fear of misuse and of repeat arson attacks would like it removing."

Further consultation is expected to take place with residents regarding a windbreak before a planning application is submitted.