The redevelopment of the former Odeon site moves a welcome stage closer today with the launch of an international competition to find a developer who can come up with a design worthy of the city centre and prove that they have the financial backing to deliver it.

The invitation for expressions of interest by companies with a proven track record of quality building in other cities should guarantee some interesting schemes on the short-list which, quite rightly, will go on show before a final decision is taken so the public can have their say.

Bradford Centre Regeneration says it has an open mind as to the design of the building which will replace the present striking but crumbling landmark and the use to which it will be put. What seems fairly clear is that it does not want to be yet another collection of clubs, pubs and caf-bars. Bradford appears to have reached saturation point as far as those are concerned.

The creation of a very special building which could house a much-needed regional concert hall as well as other facilities for the arts and entertainment would be a fitting development that could put Bradford firmly on the North of England's cultural map.

Above all, the design needs to be "iconic". That description could have been applied to the former Odeon when it first opened as the New Victoria all those years ago. The location, alongside the Alhambra, overlooking Centenary Square and facing City Hall, demands nothing less of the modern replacement for it.