A former North East cinema that was ravaged by a large fire will be demolished, it has been confirmed. 

A police investigation alongside Cleveland Fire Brigade is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire at the disused Odeon building on Dent Street around 10:50pm on Saturday 5th October.

Now Hartlepool Council has announced the building will be demolished. 

(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

A spokesperson for the council said today (Tuesday, October 10): "The building was significantly damaged and left in a structurally unsafe condition following a fire earlier this month, leaving it beyond repair.

"The building will now be demolished with work proposed to begin later this week.

"The owner of the building has been granted permission by the local planning authority to move forward with demolition work, at the cost of the building owner.(Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

"Efforts will be made during the demolition of the building to preserve as much of the building’s heritage as possible."

The spokesperson added: "A number of residents remain in alternative accommodation and with demolition work due to begin in a matter of days, it is hoped that the affected residents could return to their homes soon.

"Those affected continue to be supported and we are working in partnership with housing agencies in relation to this."

"Whilst the demolition works are carried out on-site, road closures will remain in place in Raby Road and the end of Young Street and Dent Street. Temporary traffic diversions remain in place."

 

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Cleveland Police have arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of arson on Wednesday, October 9. He has since been bailed.

Officers from Hartlepool CID are appealing to anyone with information or any footage to contact them on 101, quoting reference number 191629.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111. ​