A CAMPAIGN to raise funds to build a state-of-the-art youth zone at the former Mr Smith's site has been stopped in its tracks as speculation mounts that a hotel could be build on the land.

Uncertainty surrounds the future use of the plot of land in the town centre after a blaze destroyed the once-popular nightclub destination.

The land had been earmarked as the proposed site for a youth zone but these plans remain up in the air.

But talks of a hotel being built on the site have been discussed as a favourable option for the now empty plot.

While deputy leader of the council Mike Hannon said no plans had been set in stone, he said he is open to the idea of building a hotel on the land of the former Ritz Cinema if the youth zone finds an alternative site to build on.

He said: "We are sad about the loss of the former Mr Smith's building as so many people held so many memories.

"But we are open to fresh ideas about what can be built on the site.

"I have always been open to the idea of a quality hotel in the town centre."

Other ideas including a residential scheme have also not been ruled out, added Cllr Hannon.

The Warrington Guardian has previously reported how the owners of the land have been exploring a number of options for the site.

The chief executive of OnSide Youth Zones Kathryn Morley has confirmed that the charity has been looking into alternative locations for the hub.

She said: “We’re continuing to work closely with the Council to find the most appropriate site for Warrington Youth Zone following the fire at Mr Smith’s.

“OnSide and Warrington Youth Club remain totally committed to bringing a facility to the town that will benefit local young people and the whole community, whether that is on the former site of Mr Smith’s or an alternative location.

“We’ve paused activity around the community fundraising campaign until we can confirm the site.”

A fundraising page was launched earlier this year to raise the additional £500,000 that was needed to construct the building but donations are no longer being accepted.