Odeon 'Elgin Marbles of Doncaster' bid
THE Friends of Doncaster Odeon have launched an 11th hour bid to save the derelict cinema from demolition.
English Heritage has been asked to review its position and designate the Art Deco cinema at the top of Hallgate a listed building.
A similar request was turned down a few months ago and Doncaster Council has since granted planning permission for the Odeon, formerly the Gaumont, to be knocked down and replaced with a shop, casino and office complex.
Friends of Doncaster Odeon founder Ray Nortrop says English Heritage officers could not see the facade properly when they carried out their initial inspection because it was obscured by corrugated steel panels.
For the first time in many years a concrete frieze of a movie in production has been revealed. Developers Lazarus Properties have promised to save the frieze and use it in the new structure.
Mr Nortrop believes if English Heritage were to have another look at the building they would review their earlier decision.
He described the frieze as "a major work of art and something precious".
He added: "It is unique and can aptly be described as the Elgin Marbles of Doncaster.
"It makes one wonder how the Labour and Conservative members of Doncaster's planning committee managed to reach the decisions that they did."
He believes the Odeon should be alongside the Grand Theatre in the top 10 of theatres at risk in a list published by The Theatres Trust.
Mr Nortrop has instructed planning consultant Darren Langton to urge English Heritage to review their decision.
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Tuesday 22 May 2012
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