A qualified snooker coach has applied to build a new hall in Gorleston, with the aim of one day helping youngsters make their big break in the game.

Wayne Toovey, of Bradwell, has lodged a planning application to build a new two-storey snooker hall on a vacant plot on Beach Road,

If successful, the facility will have room for nine full sized tables across its two floors, with one solely devoted to coaching and teaching the sport.

Mr Toovey, who is a qualified World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association coach, said: “I started playing when I was just 13 and have lived in the area all my life, however, over the years I feel facilities around here don’t really receive the cash injection they need.

“The clubs I used to play as either closed or were not kept in the condition they should be in, so people often go further afield to play.”

The hall would be built on 2-3 Beach Road, next door to Beach Garage and Gambas Restaurant, on land previously been used as a motorcycle business.

Mr Toovey added: “All being well, we hope the place could be up and running in September - providing I get the necessary planning permission.

“I have lots of plans for it already - I’m hoping to run coaching groups for youngsters and that it will also be a facility serious snooker players will want to use.

“If the hall being there results in just one person going on to become a professional it will all be worthwhile.”

If permission is granted the hall would join a growing list of new entertainment developments for the town, with the new cinema already open and the William Adams Wetherspoons pub set to open next month.

“There is a lot going on in Gorleston at the moment and I think it is a great time for the town as a whole,” added Mr Toovey. “Hopefully this will add to that.”

While the potential new hall’s name is yet to be confirmed, Mr Toovey said the current favourite was Gorleston Cue Club.

A report presented to councillors in the plan’s design and access statement said: “We have surveyed local players and ascertained that many go to Lowestoft to play, which is a real shame.”