GIVING the Odeon a share of money from a regeneration fund is vital and would benefit the whole city, an MP has said.

Eleven towns and cities from across Northern England have bid for a share of a new £15 million Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund.

Leeds City Region submitted a bid to transform the former Bradford Odeon cinema into a 4,000 capacity live music, entertainment and events venue.

Shipley MP Philip Davies said Bradford without a doubt needed the money and in Parliament, urged Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom to go and speak to the relevant ministers making the decision and “let’s be done with it”.

Mrs Leadsom said: “If only I had such influence. Philip is a great champion for his area and I do encourage him to seek an adjournment debate so he can make his pitch direct.”

Grants of up to £4 million will be awarded to help build a lasting regional legacy from the Great Exhibition of the North.

Winners are expected to be announced later this month.