Statement on the Odeon Cinema, Clerk Street, Edinburgh

3 June 2009

Michael Russell, Culture Minister, said: “The application concerning the Odeon on Clerk Street has attracted a lot of attention, from both those who would like to see its auditorium retained and those who believe it should be adapted for a new use.

“The last thing I would want to see is for this process to go on indefinitely, but this is a complex case and it is important that all aspects of the application are fully and independently considered to determine the best way forward. It is for that reason I have called in this application for decision by Scottish Ministers.

“A wide range of factors will have to be taken into account, including the current economic climate, but I am sure we can resolve the matter  as quickly as possible, without compromising the scrutiny that these applications deserve.”