Environmentalists have called on the owners of two key York buildings to put the community first when deciding who to sell them to.

Alan Swain, Green Party candidate for Micklegate, said converting the Odeon site and the Bonding Warehouse into flats would be a "missed opportunity".

A frenzied bidding race is nearing completion on both buildings within the next few weeks.

Mr Swain said City of York Council, which is selling the Bonding Warehouse, should take residents' views into account when deciding upon the successful bid.

The building has not been opened to the public since the floods of 2000, except for brief periods courtesy of squatters.

Leading bidders include millionaire Peter Mandy, of Ascot Developments, who wants to convert the derelict building into nine swanky apartments on the two upper floors.

A £1.5 million state-of-the-art penthouse will form part of the development.

The Press reported last year how North Yorkshire entrepreneur David Hattersley, of the hospitality specialists Marmaduke Group, wanted to transform the dilapidated building into York's first five-star hotel, creating 200 jobs.

Another local businessman, Marti Dix, also revealed plans to convert the landmark building into a major shopping and lifestyle destination to rival the likes of the successful Corn Exchange in Leeds.

"It would be great to see the Bonding Warehouse restored and reopened," Mr Swain said.

"However, it's an opportunity missed if this grand building is only converted to flats. The internal features are worth keeping and it would be better used for the arts or for young people. Either way, any new use must take into account the views of nearby residents."

Meanwhile, the Grade II listed Odeon cinema, in Blossom Street, York, has been empty since its closure last August and a decision on its future is imminent.

Leeds estate agents Colliers CRE, who were called in to sell a long lease on the art deco building, are set to make an announcement shortly about who has bought it.

Mr Swain said: "My wish is that another cinema operator should take over the site and return it to its former glory as it is unique in York.

"Failing that, a use must be found for the building that would benefit the whole community.

"Either way, any new use must take into account the wishes of nearby residents."