The city’s most iconic landmark could be a step closer to avoiding the bulldozers, as English Heritage is considering whether The Point should become a listed building.

MK NEWS can reveal that the body, which advises the Government on the historical significance of buildings, is considering the famous red pyramid in Central Milton Keynes.

If it decides The Point should be protected, it will make a recommendation to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, which will make a final decision on the grading of the former bar and nightclub.

Already two architectural academics and a group dedicated to protecting important 20th century buildings have lobbied English Heritage for The Point to be given listed status.

It is currently under threat of demolition and redevelopment as owners Hammerson are considering building a retail complex in its place. MK NEWS has been running a campaign to protect the landmark which opened in 1985.

The Cinema Theatre Association, which works to ensure important cinematic history and architecture is recognised and protected, launched the listing application.

Eva Branscome, an architectural and historic advisor with the group,

said: “The Point is the first multiplex cinema built, so it is historically of relevance. Cinema had been declining in the UK, but because of the multiplex people started going again.

“Also architecturally The Point is quite interesting for its pyramid shape. In the past there was a beacon that lit up the sky that you could see from the highway.

“And there’s an element of postmodernism that people are increasingly interested in. Buildings about 30 years old can be put under historic protection because of this.”

The Twentieth Century Society, a charity which campaigns to save historic buildings, is also calling for The Point to be protected and has written to English Heritage.

It says: “We believe that more options could be explored towards possible conversion, adaptation or a new management approach so a viable future for The Point is found and this special building is not lost.”

MK NEWS is writing to English Heritage to support the listing bid. You can add your voice by e-mailing adam.grinsell@mk-news.co.uk.

Or sign our MK NEWS petition – see our home page.