THE news of the threat to York's Odeon was a bombshell to many (November 27).

The cinema, an architectural gem, has operated continually since February 1937, pre-dating its famous Leicester Square cousin by nine months.

Retaining much of its original auditorium in Odeon One, the cinema is the perfect environment in which to enjoy films. I cannot imagine York without its Odeon but it is a business, not a monument.

There is no evidence to suggest the closure threat is a "sideshow". The cinema's owners have invested heavily in rebranding and refurbishing their cinemas for five years to maintain their appeal to cinema-goers, most of whom are in their teens and twenties, who respond to an attractive, modern image.

The company has wanted to invest in York Odeon and although the treatment would involve replacing the original, unique sign, not a brick of the building would have been touched.

Neon outlining of the tower and floodlighting of the facade would be restored. The canopy (not the original) would be modernised.

Would all those thankful the council has vetoed the new signage feel the same when people say: "there used to be a cinema there"? Shame would be more appropriate.

Given 15 other screens, Councillor Galloway's astonishment should be that the Odeon, with its size and costs, has survived until now.

If the 11th hour has not passed, York should cherish and support its Odeon, not obstruct its positive plans.

James Bettley,

Portal Road,

Acomb, York.

...CONGRATULATIONS on your Editorial on the threatened closure of York Odeon (November 27). I do wonder, however, just exactly what effect the city council's refusal to allow a change in signing has had. After all, the Odeon management, in applying to the council, had indicated they were prepared to spend money on much-needed refurbishment.

If some changes had been agreed we might not now be in the present situation. Perhaps the council should think again before it's too late?

I am all for preservation but I should much rather be able to enjoy the real "big screen" atmosphere of Odeon 1 (quite different from the modern City Screen).

Ian Lockie,

Eastland Avenue,

Hamilton Drive,

York.

Updated: 11:31 Thursday, December 04, 2003