Historic cinema to be flattened

Doncaster's historic former Odeon cinema is to be flattened and replaced with a casino after councillors gave the go ahead to plans.

The cinema was sold to Lazarus Properties in March after it was no longer deemed to be viable.

The company will demolish the art deco landmark on Hall Gate and replace it with a development of shops, restaurants, a fitness club and casino.

The Theatres Trust had objected to the redevelopment of the site.

The trust had said the building fitted in well with the heritage of the area and said it wanted to see it retained or incorporated in some way in a redevelopment.

Music venue

Campaign group The Friends of Doncaster Odeon had also called for the property to be granted Grade II listed status to protect it from demolition, but this was rejected by English Heritage.

In a report put before the council's planning board on Tuesday, it said objections had been received from four members of the public.

One letter of support had also been received which expressed the view that the cinema building had no historic interest or value and was run down.

The cinema has been vacant since the final film was shown in April.

It opened as the Gaumont Theatre in 1934 and was one of the last to change its name to the Odeon in 1987.

It was a popular music venue in the 1950s and 1960s, hosting Buddy Holly, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

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