DUDLEY North MP Ian Austin has thrown his weight behind a proposal to reopen the town’s Hippodrome theatre as an entertainment venue.

The ROK Group, run by Wolverhampton-based businessman Jonathan Kendrick has proposed an £8 million plan to turn the building into a multi-purpose venue.

The group has been given until the end of October to submit a detailed business plan for the demolition-threatened Castle Hill theatre.

Ian Austin said: “I grew up in Dudley and had my first job in the High Street. Like anyone else from here, I want to see new ideas to bring new investment, trade and jobs to the town.

“In its heyday the Hippodrome brought stars like Laurel & Hardy, Bob Hope and Bing Crosby to Dudley, and I would love to see it become a thriving venue again.

“I’d also like to see the castle opened up throughout the summer with concerts, plays and other attractions bringing thousands of extra visitors to Dudley, boosting trade and changing the town’s image.

“Tourism is central to Dudley’s future. That’s why I will be working hard to make these plans to save the Hippodrome into a reality.”

The ROK Group has been involved in negotiations about the Hippodrome throughout this year, Mr Austin added he asked Dudley Council to listen to Mr Kendrick’s proposals last Christmas after meeting campaigners battling to save the building.