MEMBERS of the public got to scrutinise two rival plans to safeguard the future of the Odeon at an event today.

Bradford Council organised the exhibition to showcase bids by Bradford One and Bradford Live, which both have plans to breathe new life into the landmark building.

They both want to transform the former cinema into new live performance venue, but would take different approaches to the way it would be designed, funded and operated.

The public exhibition was held at City Park's pavilion building and key members of both teams were on hand to answer questions.

A steady stream of people pored over both plans and filled out their thoughts on feedback forms, which the council will now consider among other factors as it weighs up the pros and cons of both schemes.

Bradford One founder-director Caroline Cummings was one of those on hand to chat to people about their bid.

She said: "It's nice to be able to show people the plans - you can't wander round town with big displays and it can be hard to see the detail on the website.

"It's also nice to chat to people so they can find out more about the people involved.

"We have done quite a few public events and we always get a really good response from people.

"People are really passionate about the Odeon, which is brilliant, and it says something about the people of Bradford."

One of those talking people through Bradford Live's bid was its director, Lee Craven.

He said: "For the 'expressions of interest' phase two, we did a public consultation and put forward a survey, and I know the other group did as well."

But he said it was good to get another opportunity to present their plans to the public.

He said: "You can get caught up in doing this project, sometimes I think you can forget the wider picture, so I think it's a good idea.

"It is also a chance for the public to come and have a look and ask questions."

Bradford Council will now have to decide whether one or both schemes would be viable. This decision is expected by July.

If both are considered to be workable, there will be further evaluation work done through the summer and autumn, with a decision on the council’s preferred bidder announced in November.