Blackpool's ABC Theatre faces closure

A former theatre in Blackpool which played host to some of the biggest starts in showbiz is facing demolition.

The ABC theatre opened in 1963 and features appearances from Morecambe & Wise, Jimmi Hendrix and the Beatles.

The building was later turned into a cinema and then a nightclub but its been empty since October 2011 and is no longer bringing money into the resort. Blackpool council are in the process of buying the building and say short term they'll look at turning it into a car park before building something more permanent in its place.

A campaign groups been formed against the plans and an online petition set up a week ago already has than 2000 signatures.

They want to turn the building into a multi-arts venue restoring some of its original features. Blackpool council have agreed to meet with interested parties to discuss its future.

In a statement Councillor Graham Cain said: "I want to reassure residents that this council is willing to listen to their views and a decision won't be made until we've considered all the options put forward."

A public meeting is due to be held on 14th January.