BIDEFORD Town Band is once again hoping to build a new pavilion in Victoria Park.

The pavilion, which will include a practice hall, storage area and kitchen, and a performance deck.

The band is hoping its new home will be situated on the former toilet block which was demolished in January 2009.

A similar proposal from the band was refused last autumn by Torridge District Council's plans committee because of the pavilion's design.

However, the fresh application submitted to the council is said to be an innovative and contemporary design, mirroring the appearance of the Quay building and the veneer of Burton Art Gallery.

The band, which has been in the town for at least 150 years, are currently based in the hall above the Pannier Market.

However, this is described as cramped and inadequate, with no where for one-to-one tuition, storage or disabled access.

Both Bideford Town Council and Torridge District Council have been supportive of the bands plans to move and have identified the old toilet site as preferable.

The band, which has been part of the South West Band Association since it formed in 1947, regularly plays concerts at the park. If plans get the go-ahead the pavilion will front onto the Pill and the performance deck to the park.