A PIECE of Dudley's history looks set to be razed to the ground and replaced with a bright, sweeping open public space.

It looks like it will be the final curtain for the Hippodrome as Dudley Council said a final ‘expressions of interest’ exercise - which gave interested parties an opportunity to submit proposals for the site, proved fruitless.

The authority has instead put forward plans to bulldoze the dilapidated Castle Hill building to make way for a new multifunctional area of open space, which council bosses say will open up views of Dudley’s medieval castle.

The proposals are set to be put to the council’s cabinet on Thursday (December 3) seeking permission to submit a planning application for the proposals, which will bring to an end years of uncertainty over the building, and spiralling costs to the taxpayer.

The news is bound to be a blow for Friends of the Hippodrome campaigners, as they believed they could transform the dilapidated building into a thriving theatre and music venue.

But after their business plan was assessed by an independent consultant, it was found to have a number of “significant gaps in the information provided” including costs and financial projections, evidence of demand from users and timescales – all of which were essential in assessing the viability on any future uses of the building.

Friends member Garry Sawers, also known as Black Country Gaz, said the group had not been made aware of the plans but said the demolition would be "destruction of our heritage”.

He said he was disappointed with the council’s vision for the site, adding: “I would have expected more, something that would be in keeping with the ethos of entertainment. It's a shame."

The Hippodrome, which has lain empty since it ceased running as a bingo hall in 2009, attracted big stars in its heyday, including comedian Ken Dodd and pulling it down is “disastrous news for the borough’s proud heritage” according to Dudley's UKIP group.

Group leader, Councillor Paul Brothwood, said: "I am desperately disappointed that a more cost effective solution has not been found.

"Repairing the landmark Hippodrome would be far easier rather than using expensive contractors to remove the asbestos, which would have to be disposed of if demolition took place."

Councillor Roger Scott-Dow, added: "The council should have worked far closer with the Friends group and other interested parties.

"Only UKIP has been united as a party to save this treasure which could once again be a jewel in the crown of the borough.

"A revitalised Hippodrome could act as a further much needed catalyst for further regeneration."

Sedgley councillor and West Midlands MEP Bill Etheridge, said: "The Labour controlling group seem intent in wiping out our heritage as shown by the potential closure of Dudley Museum and Art Gallery and now the people's Hippodrome is on their hit list. Shame on them."

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley's Conservative group said the situation was "regrettable" and added: "I've always thought if someone could make a go of the Hippodrome then fantastic but if not, there are few options there."

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for planning and economic development, has defended the decision, saying that the council had “fully explored every suggested alternative use submitted so far”.

He continued: “After giving people every opportunity we need to draw a line under this.

“The cost of securing the building is also hitting tax-payers in the pocket and we cannot continue to bear the costs of consultants to appraise unviable projects, or indeed to help us to conduct safe access to the building as a result of its serious asbestos issues. We now need to look at better uses for the site.

“The public open square proposals could provide a range of uses from events and exhibitions to links to the many tourist attractions we have at Castle Hill. Not only that, it could open up views of the castle as people arrive at such a vital gateway to the borough.”

If cabinet agree to submitting a planning application and it is approved, the council will carry out a thorough plan into the costs of the proposed scheme and identify external funding opportunities.

Residents and businesses will have the chance to help shape the development as part of a consultation, if the proposals are approved.