Uncertain future for city cinema landmark

Building could be demolished as part of station upgrade

- By BETH ABBIT

A CITY centre landmark could be demolished and replaced with a huge crane.

Network Rail could raze the old Screen One cinema building - part of the former Cornerhouse buildings - and replace it with a tower crane to support the redevelopment of nearby Oxford Road Station.

The Grade-II listed station is due to be remodelled with the current five platforms reduced to three longer ones to facilitate larger trains.

Station facilities and the entrance will also be revamped, as passengers currently climb a steep hill or staircase to catch their train.

The project will require Oxford Road station to close for two years and councillors fear it will lead to passenger disruption and misery for city centre residents.

Meanwhile, the futures of the old Cornerhouse arts centre and Screen One - which both sit at the foot of Station Approach - remain unknown.

Network Rail confirmed it has been consulting on plans to place a temporary crane at the Screen One site, on Whitworth Street West. However, bosses say there is no "final plan" for the construction phase as yet.