Two historic entertainment venues are considered 'at risk' by theatre heritage experts.

The Astoria, in Gloucester Place, Brighton, has been added to the Theatres Trust's 2011 list of deteriorating theatres that face threat of deterioration and demolition.

The Brighton Hippodrome, in Middle Street, remains on the list and is considered to be in one of the poorest states of any theatre in the country.

The Astoria, which closed in 1997, is owned by millionaire businessman Mike Holland who announced in December last year that he wants to demolish the building to build a state-of-the-art 'media hub’.

Mr Holland has submitted two planning applications to the council which are still under consideration. He maintains that the building has 'had its day' and needs to come down.

The attitude has been heavily criticised by campaigners who say it is no surprise the Grade II Listed 1930s building is on the 'at risk' list because it is being deliberately left to deteriorate so it cannot be repaired.

The Astoria Moving Picture Trust has consistently fought to save the venue.

Colin Dibley from the group said they hoped to 'save and reopen the Astoria as a mixed community and entertainment space'.

A statement from them said: “Leaks around the flat roofing at the front of the building should have been periodically patch-repaired - at minimal cost.

“Much of the other damp and water penetration has been caused by poorly-maintained guttering and drainage. Basic maintenance would have minimised this deterioration “We have a large archive of original photos which will indicate how the Astoria will look after restoration - as many of local residents will probably not know what it looked like originally.”

Mr Holland was unavailable to comment yesterday.

The 1897 Hippodrome in Middle Street, was added to the register last year.

It is owned by Cheval Properties who then leased it to AMG/Live Nation.

In July last year AMG announced that a full refurbishment and conversion for use as a live music venue would cost at least £9million, with suitable soundproofing costing £3m.

No one from AMG or Live Nation was available to comment.