THE Odeon is York's last picture palace. Built in 1937 at the end of the cinema's golden age, it was one of many city movie houses.

Generations have enjoyed a thrill of anticipation as they stepped into the Odeon's strikingly-decorated auditorium, ready to be transported on a celluloid adventure.

But it is not mere nostalgia which prompts us to call for it to remain as a working cinema. The Odeon is an asset for York people and one that should be retained. All the other old movie houses have long since vanished, victims of our addiction to television. If the Odeon goes too, it would leave York with only one cinema.

City Screen on Coney Street caters for a different audience. It does show the blockbusters, but much of its programme is that of an arthouse cinema.

The Odeon is more mainstream. Far larger than City Screen, it offers York people the chance to see the top movies without travelling to the Clifton Moor multiplex. That is important for teenagers and others without their own transport.

The Odeon owners recently threatened to shut the York cinema if they were not allowed to remove its distinctive original sign. Thankfully, councillors did not capitulate.

We suspect this row was a sideshow. There is no doubt that the Odeon could be sold for millions to a property developer.

Odeon bosses say they are considering its "economic viability". As the success of the City Screen shows, cinemas can thrive in York.

But the Odeon needs investment. A sensitive refurbishment, the reopening of the bar, and the use of the main auditorium for other events besides films would revive this venue's fortunes.

Otherwise we fear the next presentation: "Coming soon to a theatre near you... yet more flats."

Updated: 10:10 Thursday, November 27, 2003