Firm plans have been submitted for a multi-million pound performing arts centre at Walsall’s university campus.

Hopes of a £16million centre in Gorway Road, where future stars of stage and screen will be trained, have been discussed by university bosses for several years.

But a formal planning application put forward to Walsall Council marks the first official move surrounding the scheme.

Bosses at the University of Wolverhampton first raised the idea of a modern facility, including a learning centre at the campus, in the summer of 2006.

Last year they confirmed the project was still in the early stages and tenders were advertised.

Garry Sproston, deputy vice-chancellor, said: “We can confirm that a planning application has been submitted to the council for a new combined performing arts and learning centre building to replace existing facilities at our Walsall campus.

“We will be in a position to release further details if planning permission is granted.”

It follows the completion of the £64million Walsall College Wisemore Campus, which will open its doors to more than 12,000 students next month.