CONTROVERSIAL plans for a three-storey entertainment complex built on stilts have been dealt a major blow.

Conservationists are opposed to a proposal by Uttoxeter-based developer Malcolm Barrett to build a cinema and bowling alley on the High Street car park in Leek.

They have rejected the scheme because the car park is in a conservation area and they fear the building would tower over listed properties and block out the view of the historic St Edward's Church.

Architects have now gone back to the drawing board and are working on plans for a ground-floor complex, which would involve the loss of spaces on the long stay car park.

An amended planning application is now expected to be lodged before Christmas.

Leek Civic Society chairman Josie Heath, who was chairman of the conservation panel for 12 years, has sat in on the meetings where the plans have been discussed.

She said: "People were unanimously against it, because the entertainment centre would obliterate the view of St Edward's Church and other listed properties, such as the Quaker Friends' Meeting House.

"The idea they came up with for it to be built on stilts might be suitable for big cities, but it would not suit Leek.

"We would rather they look at an alternative site and have suggested the new Sainsbury's, where there is plenty of room and car parking.

"We do not want to be an old fashioned town where nothing ever happens and we want to provide facilities for young people. But this proposed building is very modern looking and we do not want anything which spoils the look of the town."

Traders and opposition councillors say the California Mill car park would be a more suitable location for an entertainment complex.

Leek councillor Pam Wood, a member of the conservation liaison panel, is among supporters of the California Mill site.

She said: "There is a lot of concern about the High Street location because of the loss of car parking and because it is surrounded by historically important buildings. We have to guard our assets.

"Anything which is built should be in keeping with the personality of the town.

"The California Mill car park would be a wonderful site. It is little used and it could help link the town to Brough Park."

The plans have been spearheaded by Council leader Sybil Ralphs

She said: "Four years ago we asked the people of Leek what they wanted to see developed and they asked for a cinema, bowling alley and theatre.

"The developer will build it at no cost to the council and he intends to run it at no cost to the council.

"It will also help with the town's night time trade. I do not want the centre of Leek to die after 5.30pm."