EVESHAM'S Ambassador Snooker Club has been given another reprieve from developers thanks to Wychavon district councillors.

Members rejected plans to demolish the club on Avon Street and replace it with a block of 12 apartments. Councillors felt the snooker hall, home to a number of sports organisations, was an important community facility for the town.

Club member Irene Heath, speaking at the planning meeting last Thursday, said: "It really is important to preserve what we have left of our heritage and the history of the town. The last thing we need is to allow a community building like the Ambassador Club to be knocked down. The club employs 12 people and is the best facilitated snooker hall for miles around - it is all on ground floor level so it is disabled-friendly. The Ambassador Club is definitely a community facility and could never be replaced."

But Richard Mumford, representing the applicant, said: "This part of Avon Street has always been commercial but the local plan is looking into turning it into residential.

"A three-storey site has been accepted in other parts of Avon Street and we consider the proposal suitable for this site."

Members feared the development would have a detrimental effect on the area in general. Councillor Jo Sandalls said: "In my opinion it would result in a barrack-type block, which would be harmful to the street scene and conservation area."

Cllr John Payne added: "It is getting to be almost like a ghetto situation. It's increasingly important that whatever goes on this site is acceptable to the town centre and gives a visual break, otherwise it's going to be overpowering."