Campaign for Odeon backed by actress

The Vera Drake star signed a petition calling for the city centre landmark to be retained during a recent visit to the Bradford International Film Festival.

Underneath her signature, the actress – who plays Defence against the Dark Arts teacher Dolores Umbridge in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – added the words "Save it."

Plans to tear down the building met fierce opposition and campaigners have been fighting to save it for more than five years.

Last year Bradford Council's regulatory and appeals committee moved in favour of proposals to demolish the building to make way for a development including a hotel, bars and cafs.

More than 700 Bradfordians had made formal objections to plans from developers Langtree Artisan to demolish the building.

Campaigners were dealt a further blow when the regional government office confirmed there would be no ministerial intervention.

Bradford Councils major development manager John Eyles said: "The council's regulatory and appeals committee has previously resolved to grant planning permission for the new development and conservation area consent for demolition of the former Odeon cinema building.

"Before planning permission can be granted it is necessary for the developer to enter into a Section 106 legal agreement that would prevent any demolition of the existing building before contracts were agreed for the construction of the replacement buildings. The S106 Agreement is likely to be completed shortly and then planning permission will be issued."

Over 1,500 people have joined a Facebook group, Save Our Odeon.