A GROUP dedicated to brightening a seaside town has won approval to build a community bandstand, despite concerns about the loss of one of the area's most prized possessions.

Planning officers recommended the scheme in Redcar be refused on the grounds the location for the feature was unacceptable.

Objectors were also worried the scheme would rid the town of its popula colony of stone penguins.

But the Flower Power for Redcar group was granted approval for the feature, on the seafront.

It is hoped the bandstand would be used up to 50 times a year for community events.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's planning committee went against officers' recommendations and approved the application at its meeting on Thursday.

Although not against the principle of the scheme, planning officers said the location of the bandstand was unacceptable.

The Flower Power for Redcar group, which was formed in June after owners of small businesses decided to improve the town's environment, wants to erect a Victorian-style octagonal metal bandstand on the paved area between the entrance canopy to the boating lake and the first seating shelter, where the concrete penguins are.

Objectors are concerned the scheme will lead to the loss of the penguins, which were installed ten years ago by the Great British Bollard Company as part of the Esplanade's public art.

Objectors also felt the scheme would become a magnet for vandalism and generate noise, disturbing local residents.

A report to the committee said: "The existing penguins, north pole and surface treatments are designed as part of a previous regeneration scheme along Redcar promenade.

"While the penguins could be located elsewhere, this would lead to the loss of an attractive public art feature that forms a unique contribution to Redcar.

"Although the proposal is commendable as a community initiative, from a planning perspective the location is unacceptable."

Speaking after the planning meeting, committee chairman Councillor Brian Hogg, said: "We feel that a bandstand can play a part in Redcar regeneration.

There used to be one and we believe it should return."