Council bosses think Ashford could be becoming large enough to sustain a theatre - but say the former Mecca Bingo building is not appropriate.

Scores of residents are calling on the authority to open a theatre in the town centre, with thousands signing a petition to convert the ex-Odeon building in the Lower High Street.

Ashford Borough Council (ABC) leader Gerry Clarkson says he is aware of the calls, which have grown louder since Mecca left the town centre in July.

Cllr Clarkson said: “The new Ashford town centre place making board will be engaging with our residents to understand just what they would like to see here in Ashford.

“I am well aware that there is a good deal of support for a theatre and we are quite open to that suggestion, but we do need to consider it very carefully.

“I am of the opinion that with Ashford and surrounding areas growing, our catchment may be becoming large enough to sustain a theatre.”

When asked if the former Mecca Bingo building could become home to the theatre, Cllr Clarkson said the prominent structure is “not appropriate”.

He added: “I have put it in my column for the public to know I am aware of what they are saying.

"We are going to examine it all.

"I am aware people have been on about a theatre for years.

“We are looking to come to a sensible and informed decision.”

Our sister paper, the Kentish Express has been inundated with letters calling for a theatre in the town centre since Mecca Bingo closed in July.

ABC bought the venue earlier this year and is considering knocking it down to turn it into an ‘outdoor performance space’.

A council spokeswoman said last month: “We have recently acquired this key town centre site and is currently looking at future options to turn it into a multi-purpose space which will aim to meet various community needs.

“It is unlikely that repurposing the existing building into a theatre will be a financially viable option.

“Architects have been commissioned to consider the possible future uses for this site which may include a flexible outdoor performance space that could be used for anything from markets, performances, live music and screening sporting events, but no decision has been made as yet.

“In addition the council is undertaking a town centre consultation which is considering various ideas for how cultural activity can be showcased and delivered."

The petition calling for the conversion of Mecca Bingo - which was originally built in 1936 - has almost reached 3,000 signatures.

Organiser Peter Morris-Kelso plans to close the petition when it reaches the 3,000 mark and present it to ABC.