More uncertainty for Dudley Hippodrome as driverless vehicle firm asks for more time

Council leaders had hoped the future of the historic building would finally be settled during January following a saga lasting years.

Dudley Driverless Vehicles Consortium (DDVC) has been working on plans to turn the landmark former theatre into a testing centre for the last 12 months and a decision on whether the company could go forward was due next week.

But council officials have now revealed the company has asked for an extension until September 2020 to develop its proposals for the Hippodrome site, something the authority looks set to allow.

It will bring frustration for those who were hoping to see the run-down Castle Hill building's future settled but could also act as a boost for campaigners who still want to save it and re-open it as a theatre and community venue.

Dudley Council officials said in a new report as there had been "no other credible proposals" for the Hippodrome site, it was prepared to give DDVC more time to work on its project.

The report said: "Since December 2018, no other credible proposals have been submitted to the council relating to the refurbishment of the former Dudley Hippodrome building.

"It is considered therefore, that extending the timeline relating to the DDVC proposal will facilitate a much more comprehensive and competitive proposal for Towns Fund resources while identifying a long-term and positive use for the site in question.

"Accordingly, it is recommended that the DDVC proposal be provided with additional time, until September 2020, in order to develop proposals for the site in question, to bring it in line with submission of the Towns Fund Investment Plan."

Councillors are due to make a final decision on January 6.

The famous former Hippodrome has been closed since 2012 and was last used as a bingo hall. A community-led campaign to re-open it failed when Dudley Council ruled the group would not be able to come up with the necessary funds.