MORECAMBE'S Dome and Bubbles complex faces an uncertain future but looks likely to stay open for at least another year.

The current contract to operate the sea-front leisure facility runs out on September 30 and options that have been investigated so far include the city council taking it over, redevelopment or even demolition.

The site, especially the outdoor pool, is in urgent need of major repairs but the Independent group has ruled out closing or demolishing the tourist attraction.

Said Cllr Paul Morris: "We have proposed that the city council take over the running of the complex in the short term to ensure that it opens for the summer of 2000. However, the Independent Group still feel that in the long term Bubbles should be run by the private sector and, together with officers, we will be looking at marketing the site in a more aggressive, targeted way."

Said Cllr Tricia Heath: "Everyone knows the views of Morecambe Bay alone are priceless. I can't believe no-one is interested in the site."

There are fears that mothballing Bubbles and the Dome until a suitable developer can be found could result in the complex deteriorating and becoming an eyesore.

And another idea that has been suggested includes demolishing the whole site and developing an outdoor arena which could stage spectacular events during the popular summer festivals.

Despite months of positive marketing no private developers have expressed serious interest in the site.

Bubbles is said to be in need of £179,000 worth of repairs over the next two years and the cost to the public purse to keep it open is estimated at £400,000.

Predicted costs to convert the site into an outdoor arena range from £280,000 to £900,000.

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