Plans for power station revealed

Plans include two hotels, a theatre and more than 700 flats

Updated plans to renovate London's Battersea Power Station and redevelop its 38-acre site have been submitted to the planning authority.

The station would become a "24-hour destination", housing a cinema, bars, cafes and shops as part of a privately-funded £500m development.

Monday's submission from Parkview International expands on plans which were given outline permission in 1997.

The Grade II-listed station stopped generating electricity in 1983.

One of the most distinctive creations of phone box architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, it was built in stages between 1933 and 1955.

But since its generators fell silent in 1983, it has fallen into disrepair, and without a roof it has been damaged by the weather.

Supporters say the plans will bring a new open space and jobs

In October, attempts to have some aspects of the planning permission reconsidered were thrown out by a High Court judge.

Wandsworth Council says the plans for an entertainment, leisure and retail development are good news and will create up to 9,000 jobs.

Plans for the site include two hotels, a 2,000-seat theatre, a 16-screen cinema and 750 new flats.

They also show the showcase building being twisted like ribbon to create what the council describes as a "spectacular portal to the site".

Parkview's chief executive, Michael Roberts, said the plans would create a "more welcoming and impressive new frontage for the site".

Improvements to train station

He said: "Our application is within the framework of the existing permission but with an exciting new look.

"Over the last 12 months we have examined the design of each of the key components.

"These have now evolved into what I believe are exceptionally stunning pieces of architecture."

Plans also include upgrading Battersea Park station with escalators and lifts to improve transport links.

The updated designs will be put out to local consultation and will be considered by Wandsworth Council in the summer.

Construction is expected to begin on the site in 2005 and be completed in 2008.