Plan for Dudley Hippodrome takeover considered
Council bosses today revealed they are considering proposals for a takeover of a landmark theatre by its previous family owners.
International entertainment company Events that Rok is looking at buying the under-threat Dudley Hippodrome.
It would be a lifeline for the former theatre which has been earmarked for demolition for Dudley Council.
Speaking for the first time about the takeover talks, regeneration boss Councillor Judy Foster said they are considering the proposals but said the council would continue with its scheme to flatten the Castle Hill venue.
Campaigners have welcomed the news. The firm, which has a base in Albrighton,was co-founded by businessman Jonathan Kendrick.
His father Vic Kendrick owned the Castle Hill theatre in the 1960s when it was being revamped as a casino club.
Friends group spokesman Dr Paul Collins said they had put together an undisclosed offer for the theatre and a fully-costed plan to refurbish the building.
He has described it as a 'positive' development.
Councillor Foster said today: "We have always made it clear that sensible proposals for the former Gala Bingo building would be considered.
"We can confirm we've received an outline proposal from Events That Rok which we are considering but in parallel we're continuing to seek consent for demolition through our existing planning application."
The Friends group drew up a business plan to showcase how the former theatre and Gala Bingo building could be saved.
If permission to demolish the building is granted it will be knocked down to make way for a £3million Dudley Bug shaped-education and conference centre adjoining Dudley Zoo.
