Plans to redevelop a famous boxing arena in east London have been condemned by the city's sporting fraternity.

Tower Hamlets Council wants York Hall in Bethnal Green to provide the community with more than just boxing facilities.

But the plans could lead to the venue being destroyed which has prompted an outcry from promoter Frank Warren, who is now considering buying it.

The arena, which was built in 1929, has been the boxing home of fighters such as Audley Harrison and Chris Eubank.

'Poor facilities'

Paul Martindill, from Tower Hamlets Council said: "What we have to do as a council is look at York Hall as a leisure facility which is what it is.

"Boxing is part of that, but we are concerned about the standard of the facilities we have got there at the moment which we think in some areas is quite poor.

"We are also looking at other options that are different ways of using the centre which would be better for attracting more children, more families, people with disabilities etc..."

Frank Warren has said he would like to do something as a "joint venture or even privately" to prevent the venue from being destroyed.

"But it's up to the council to let us know if they want to sell the venue and I certainly would be very very keen because it's in use nearly every week for a boxing event.

"Certainly there are other event such as weddings and so forth that it is let out for."