Zoo boss backs Dudley Hippodrome demolition

It comes after the Black Country Living Museum also spoke out in favour of the Dudley Council proposals to flatten the building in Castle Hill.

The zoo's chief executive Peter Suddock has written to Dudley Council in support of the scheme.

In the letter, he said the building, in its current state, was "detrimental" to the historic castle and gave visitors a bad first impression of the town.

Members of the Friends of Dudley Hippodrome group are currently working on a revised business plan as they want the venue to reopen as a community theatre.

They believe it could host West End-style shows and host theatre workshops and offer training opportunities for young people.

But Mr Suddock said he agreed with the council's plans to tear down the former theatre to make way for a temporary car park.

He said in his letter: "We are supportive of the local authority position for the demolition of this building as it is felt that the current view from Castle Gate island is detrimental to Castle Hill, particularly the Tecton buildings and the castle.

"The position is in line with English Heritage's view in 2011 that the building has no significant architectural merit remaining.

"Its current state also provides a negative introduction to the town and many of our visitors bring this to our attention, suggesting that it is unacceptable and should be demolished."

Mr Suddock said he believed the building should be knocked down as it was "necessary for the wider regeneration of Castle Hill."

He added the emotion of campaigners fighting to save it should not be the overriding factor in keeping the landmark.

But he said he did recognise the Hippodrome's "social importance to past generations".

Last week it emerged that English Heritage had back-pedalled on its opposition to the demolition plans.