PLANS to restore an ageing boathouse and bring a lifesaving service under one roof have been submitted to councillors.

Bridlington's Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is hoping to replace its current South Marine Drive station, which first opened in 1903, with a new Art Deco-style building.

The proposals are currently being considered by East Riding of Yorkshire Council and, if successful, a two-storey building will offer the extra space required to house the Shannon class RNLI all-weather lifeboat and launching vehicle, which will replace the current lifeboat when she reaches the end of her operational life.

At the moment, a lack of space in the old lifeboat station means the inshore lifeboat and crew's equipment are housed separately on Princess Mary Promenade.

The £3million building will see the lifeboat and launch vehicle can remain together to speed up the call-out process when the crew are mobilised.

The new home will also boast a modern training and changing facilities for the volunteer crew; a mechanic’s workshop; a shop and a viewing area so the public can see the lifeboat.

Michael Oakes, RNLI Divisional Operations Manager, said: "It will allow us to consolidate all our lifesaving services in one building, making for a more efficient operation, and will provide the much-improved facilities that our volunteer crew deserve.

"Where possible, the RNLI encourages members of the public to visit our lifeboat stations and the new building will have the advantage of a more interactive visitor experience where temporary exhibitions can be held, while the public will be able to see the lifeboat at her best from a purpose-built viewing gallery."

The authority has already agreed to increase the width of the promenade by up to seven metres to allow the lifeboat to be launched more safely by the crew.

Steve Kinroy, Bridlington RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, added: "The new building clearly demonstrates the RNLI’s long term commitment to the town and to the sea going community of this area, and we very much look forward to this exciting new phase in Bridlington RNLI’s long and proud history."