PRESCOT'S rich Shakespearian heritage is the inspiration for plans to create a new theatre and education centre in the town.

Knowsley Council has confirmed proposals for a new Shakespearean theatre and education centre have now been formally submitted for planning approval.

The plans from Shakespeare North Trust propose the creation of a new 350-seat playhouse and college to be located in Prescot near to the site of the only freestanding purpose-built Elizabethan era theatre outside of London.

The plans celebrate the area's connections to William Shakespeare and build on the evidence that suggests Shakespeare’s earliest plays were performed in Prescot.

The town was home to one of only a handful of standing theatres outside London in the 16th century.

There is a possibility the Bard himself may have visited the theatre on a trip with the Earl of Derby.

Plans state the development will be a four-storey building, including basement, with multi-use space with facilities for the teaching of theatre practices, community performances and film screenings.

The Star reported in 2014 when an 18 feet by 15 feet artwork was put on display in Leyland Street, in Prescot town centre, commemorating the area's strong history of Elizabethan theatre.

The proposals for the new theatre have been publicly praised by Prime Minister David Cameron and Minister of State for Culture Ed Vaizey and have the backing of Knowsley MP George Howarth.

Knowsley Council has validated the planning application and will now consult the local community and are hopeful to make a decision in April, which will be the month millions across the globe will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the playwright’s death.