THE POPULAR Trinity theatre in Cowes could be sold for development and replaced by a new purpose-built community theatre half a mile away on Cowes High School.

Developer Christopher Scott this week confirmed he had been approached to investigate the possibility of a move following informal discussion between the Trinity and Cowes High.

Mr Scott is already developing a plot adjoining theatre land, in a scheme to build luxury apartments and new officers for Cowes Combined Clubs.

He said: "All that we are doing at the moment is carrying out research. I have been asked to look at the theatre and investigate a relocation package."

Mr Scott said no final decision had been made. The decision would rest with Cowes Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (CAODS), he said.

CAODS president Jane Maclean confirmed the society had discussed the idea informally with Cowes High.

"We will be discussing the issue at the next CAODS annual meeting in June," she said.

"CAODS members will make the final decision."