Cheshire West and Cheshire Council (CWCC) has approved plans to purchase the former Odeon Cinema site - one of two preferred sites for a new theatre proposed for Chester.

The Grade II-listed Art Deco-style building in Northgate Street was revealed in a feasibility study - along with The Little Roodee - as a potential location for a flagship cultural venue. However, further studies are ongoing and a final decision is yet to be made. Council officers have now been instructed to close a deal with the Odeon Cinema's owner in the interim.

CWCC leader Mike Jones said: "The Odeon's position in the Chester city centre means that the building will have an important role in the development of the all-important One City Plan."