A CAMPUS nightclub could be built at the University of York if ambitious plans are given the green light.

Proposals are yet to be submitted to City of York Council, however, it is hoped the existing squash courts at Derwent College, in Heslington, will be turned into a clubbing venue with a mirrored wall, elevated DJ booth and a seated lounge area by the end of the current academic year.

A spokesman for the university said: "We believe a nightclub is a good idea. "The space could be readily converted to provide a high quality venue on campus.

"Of course, students will still visit clubs in town, but it would be great to have the option of a venue on campus.

"We would ensure the nightclub is fully accessible to disabled students and provides a safe environment.

"The club could be booked by colleges or clubs and prices would be competitive with venues in the city."

The area was used as a temporary nightclub last year when undergraduates set up their own Black Box event for students.

In the short term, it would still be used by sports clubs, but the university is aiming to convert it permanently over the coming months.

Initial reports in the campus newspaper York Vision suggested it could cost £200,000 to transform the area and open the 150 to 250 capacity club two days a week between 11pm and 3am.

Sam Maguire, YUSU president, said: "The proposals for the nightclub are in their infancy, we are interested to work with the university to explore the possibility.

"It may potentially provide an alternative event space on campus for students to use which is an obvious plus particularly during Freshers’ week.

"However, an integral part of the York student experience is the city nightlife and this should be protected."