A LICENSEE this week vowed to continue plans to open a new upmarket nightclub - despite an arson attack.

Ian Ross is determined to turn the former Storeys derelict building in Victoria Square, Widnes, pictured above, into a thriving entertainment venue.

He already runs several pubs and clubs with his uncle, including Rossi's pub, below the proposed nightclub. They hope to create 20 new jobs.

"We are putting money back into the area," said Ian Ross. "We want to improve the image of this part of town."

Firefighters condemned intruders for setting fire to several parts of the derelict nightclub.

A spokesman for Widnes fire brigade said: "It was a malicious ignition. They put the lives of firefighters at risk. There was damage to the stairwell and on the first floor. We spent most of our time cutting floors away to get to it.

"It is a big rambling building. We weren't sure if people could have been trapped inside."

Mr Ross has submitted plans for his new venture, 'R2' and intends to hold a public meeting for local residents.

"All our pubs and clubs are bang in the middle of communities," said Ian. "We will be using our own security, with Widnes lads on the door. We have never had any trouble or drugs.

"My door is always open if there is a problem. We will be working with local residents.

"We want to create a club which has dance music, not only the commercial charts, with something to suit everyone."