Building work on live music venue almost complete

Work on transforming Bradford's former Odeon cinema into a new 3,800-capacity entertainment venue is almost complete, newly released pictures reveal.

Bosses at Bradford Live pledged the cinema, built in 1930, would be "restored to its former glory" ahead of the borough beginning its year as UK City of Culture in 2025.

Bradford Live's director Chris Morell said the project was "on schedule".

However, concerns have grown recently about whether NEC - the promoter tasked with bringing in artists - was still attached to the project.

Last month, Mr Morrell told the BBC the project was on schedule to be handed over to NEC at the end of June.

The firm has not commented on its future at the venue despite being approached by the BBC, but Mr Morrell said it remained under contract with Bradford Live.

The latest photos show how some of the building's original features have been reinvigorated, despite the site previously laying empty for more than two decades.

Abba and Bob Marley tribute performances in November were the first dates announced for the venue.

In March, the Bradford Telegraph and Argus, reported music fans were unable to buy tickets for either concert online through the Bradford Live website.

Some of those who did manage to buy tickets told the BBC they had later received refunds.

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