MYSTERY surrounds the identity of an organisation that is planning to open an asylum assessment centre at a Worcester landmark.

The group has approached the owner of the Northwick theatre in Ombersley Road, with a view to renting the building for six months.

Owner Ian Perks, who recently put the Grade II listed building up for sale, is remaining tight-lipped about the deal amid fears publicity will jeopardise it.

"They've told me they want to open a short-term asylum assessment centre," said Mr Perks, who is hoping to sell the theatre via the internet for £1m.

"They are not from around here and have told me they don't want any publicity because it could mess up the deal by upsetting residents.

"At the moment, they are looking at what they need to spend, and funding issues.

"They've had a look at the plans and the room sizes seemed to match up to what they were looking for.

"The balcony area in the auditorium seats 350 and apparently they need to talk to people en-masse.

"The Northwick already has planning permission to be used for a large, communal gathering, so it wouldn't need any additional planning permission," he said.

The Northwick theatre, which once played host to Oasis before the group hit the big time, was opened in 1938 as a cinema.

It possesses Art Deco treasures, such as two rows of mythical women, and contains the last intact works by interior designer John Alexander.

It was a bingo hall from 1966 to 1982 and then stood empty until 1991 when Mr Perks turned it into a live music venue. It finally closed its doors in 1996.

Although Mr Perks is hoping the Northwick will be snapped up by a sympathetic buyer, he said he will be more than happy to rent it out in the meantime.

"I shall be speaking to the people involved later on in the week," said Mr Perks.

However, the identity of the organisation, which is looking to rent the Northwick, remains a mystery.

The Home Office has ruled out any involvement, so too has the Refugee Council, which represents asylum seekers on a range of issues.

"There are no plans for an asylum centre in Worcester," said a Home Office spokesman.