Restored Odeon ‘could be city’s beating heart’
A REJUVENATED Bradford Odeon would “become the beating heart of a city” if it was reopened, city-born actor Timothy West and presenter Dara Ó Briain said in a letter to the Government last night.
They are among 30 prominent figures in the entertainment and creative industries who signed an open letter to Culture Secretary Matt Hancock, calling on him to fund plans to turn the derelict building into a live music venue. Once completed, developers expect the 1930s venue to host more than 200 events a year, attracting 270,000 people to Bradford city centre annually.
In November it was announced that the restoration and reopening of the building, which has been closed since 2000, would be Leeds City Region’s chosen project to be considered for funding from the Government’s Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund.
The letter called on the Government to “inspire the next generation of Bradfordians by backing this incredibly important project and helping us to show the world that Bradford is a true city of culture, and one to be proud of ”.
It said: “A rejuvenated Bradford Odeon will become the beating heart of a city that is synonymous with the arts, yet has not benefited from investment in the creative industries in recent years when compared to other areas.”
The letter was signed by representatives of the National Science and Media Museum, Impressions Gallery and Bradford Theatres, as well as Bob Hardy, the Bradford-born member of indie rock band Franz Ferdinand. Mr Hardy said: “As a teenager it always felt as if Bradford was missing a significant live music venue. We’d often have to make a journey into Leeds or Manchester to see touring bands, which is a shame considering Bradford’s size and cultural legacy.
“To take the derelict Odeon and bring it back to life would attract touring bands as well as audiences from areas surrounding the city.”