A PLANNING application has been submitted for a new youth centre in Shoebury.

The £2.9million building would replace the current youth centre in Delaware Road.

The application also asks for permission to build a cafe on the site.

Southend councillors will decide whether to give the project the go-ahead in the next few weeks.

The centre would include dance and music studios, a gym, climbing wall, workshop and restaurant.

The restaurant and kitchen would offer reasonably priced food and would be run by the YMCA, which would use it as a training kitchen and workplace for vulnerable young people.

The centre would also feature a garden and terrace area, sports hall and changing and shower facilities.

Southend Council won Big Lottery Funding on behalf of the Government for the centre, which would be open to all youngsters.

Children who attend the centre would be able to continue with their activities at Shoebury Community Centre until the new youth centre is built.

If planning permission is granted, the new centre is expected to open in April 2010.