Two commercial companies have made approaches to take over the running of Bradford's Alhambra Theatre.

The companies have come forward during market testing of options for the service.

John Botteley, head of theatres, arts and festivals, says the Alhambra is enjoying its best period in living memory. But it is being subsidised to the tune of about £650,000 a year by the Council.

Director of arts, heritage and leisure Jane Glaister will give a presentation of the options for the theatre's future at next Tuesday's meeting of the regeneration and culture committee when members will recommend a way ahead.

The future of St George's Hall as an entertainment venue will also be discussed and a feasibility study is expected to be given the go-ahead.

Miss Glaister will tell members the beautiful, listed St George's building should be the "cultural football" between the Alhambra and National Museum of Photography, Film and Televisi on, but it has serious short comings. They include:

l poor vision and poor leg room in some seats

l no lift, and the building fails to conform to the Disability Discrimination Act because of its age

l too few seats to take some major touring shows.

The possibility of a new flagship concert hall was included in the City of Culture bid but members will be told it would cost about £50 million.

Miss Glaister says in a report to members that comprehensive redevelopment of the hall would cost about £15 million but an upgrade would cost far less.

Scrutiny committee chairman Councillor Andy Mudd said today: "Personally I think the Alhambra is one of the district's biggest assets and should remain in the control of the Council."

They should look at the possibility of bringing St George's Hall up to standard but he wanted to see a major new concert hall in the heart of the city.