Odeon West Hartlepool

Hartlepool Borough Council are looking at compulsory purchase as the current owners are not carrying out any remedial work on the building to improve its appearance. It is a high priority on Mayor Drummonds ‘Grot Spot’ list. The council have already ensured several buildings have either been redeveloped or demolished and the Odeon is probably one of the worst offenders left. It looks highly likely they will then consider de-listing and demolition. As only the stone front images are listed, these could be removed and allow the bulldozers in. Most of the interior was altered / damaged when converted to Caesars Palace in the early 90’s so little probably remains apart from ceiling areas in the foyer which aare hidden above suspended ceilings. The council are eager to deal with the Odeon as it is in a prominent position close to the town centre and with Hartlepool being a ‘Tall Ships 2010’ host port, they are expecting around a million visitors. This is certainly one building in the town they do not want to be seen. With pigeons having access via the side windows since 1981, these areas of the building must be ripe, as they were not used even when it re-opened some 15 or so years ago. Hopefully some recording of its features both inside or out will be carried out if it is in fact demolished. Its certain there is little hope of it being brought back into a useful role, having almost gone through 3 decades since it was in full use. Another of Hartlepools prominent buildings left to rot. With the Wesley Chapel (former Wesley Nightclub) out of use again, it wont be long before that bacomes an eyesore yet again.

Recently, an engineer from Hartlepool Borough Council has visited the Odeon to carry out an external inspection following reports that part of a wall was showing signs of bulging and loose bricks. Whilst no action has been taken to date, the owners have been advised. The building is still a priority on the council ‘grot-spot’ list of buildings, however problems on agreeing a price have so far put off any offers to redevelop the site. Over 28 years since it ended its cinema life, its deterioration is becoming more evident.

Hartlepool Borough Council have now boarded off parts of the footpath around the former Odeon building, namely areas at both corners where the large glass tiled windows are located. It has been reported pieces of masonary have been falling, so the council have acted to protect passing members of the public. The owners have been asked to carry out remedial work and find a use for the building. See article below from Hartlepool Mail:
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My apologies for one or two typing errors there….

Image uploaded.