A ONCE-THREATENED cinema and concert venue is hoping to expand to pack in larger audiences.

The plans for Holmfirth’s Picturedrome on Market Walk include building permanent balconies to give spectators a better view of the stage.

The Grade II listed building’s first-floor balcony will be replaced with a permanent structure, together with a second-floor viewing platform.

The Picturedrome was erected in 1913 and called the Valley Theatre.

It is one of Britain’s oldest surviving purpose-built cinemas.

The venue hit hard times in the early 2000s and the cinema screen was taken down in March, 2007.

But the reels spun again in January last year.

The building is also used for private functions.

Since becoming a live music venue the Picturedrome has seen artists such as ex-Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley and singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading passing through its doors.

Kirklees Council will decide whether to approve the plans. Public consultation ended on Monday this week.