A popular park in South Shields could become a hub for music and theatre events under new plans.
South Tyneside Council is currently consulting on a licence application for North Marine Park.
This includes permission to host plays, live/recorded music and dance between 10am-8pm, Monday to Sunday.
The plans form part of a multi-million pound regeneration scheme to return the park to its original Victorian splendour.
With support from a £2.4million Heritage Lottery Fund grant, the first year of a four-year 'activity plan' includes hosting community events.
However, Green Party councillor for Beacon and Bents ward, David Francis, has said a large number of residents are concerned about the plans.
"At the moment, people are able to choose between the livelier nature of South Marine Park and the quieter North Marine Park," he said.
"I'm in favour of the variety which we currently enjoy, where people are free to choose to use the different parks for different purposes."
Since the licensing application was lodged, bids to screen films and host boxing/wrestling events have been removed.
Changes also include slashing proposed event finish times by two-and-a-half hours from 10.30pm to 8pm.
According to the application, events are likely to take place on the grass by Pier Parade, within bowling greens or on the grassed area at 'the Lawe Top'.
To keep events in check, Safety Advisory Groups (SAGs) will be involved in the event planning process, with extra stewards brought in when needed.
Coun John Anglin, lead member for regeneration and economy, said: "North Marine Park was designed to be an asset for the community and original features such as the bandstand, the promenade and the aviary encouraged social gatherings.
"The successful bid for National Lottery Heritage funding has created a fantastic opportunity to redevelop and reinstate the park.
"To maximise its potential for the provision of activities the park needs an appropriate premises licence in place.
"We would like to reassure people that the intention is to hold occasional, small scale community events such as storytelling, family fun days, small plays and dance in the park."
He added: "The application does not cover the sale of alcohol. Large scale events will continue to be held in Bents Park.
"To make this clear, we will be making some amendments to the licence application and will be bringing event finishing times forward to 8pm."
Public comments are open on the application until Wednesday, June 12.
They can be submitted by writing to the council or emailing licensing@southtyneside.gov.uk.
