Plans for a new multi-million pound theatre in Chester have moved forward after the council announced that it had successfully secured the second of its two preferred locations.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWCC) now intends to identify its chosen site for the venue on 13 October after acquiring the Odeon cinema site on Upper Northgate Street.

In addition to the Odeon cinema site, the council has named Little Roodee as a preferred site for the new theatre following a detailed examination of possible locations.

CWCC chief executive Steve Robinson said: "The council has completed the £2.6m purchase of the former cinema from the Barnsley-based owners, Brook Group.

"We can now ensure that whatever decision is taken on the theatre site that the Odeon will continue to play an important role in the economic and social life of the city centre."