Work to begin the redevelopment of a 1930s cinema in St Andrews is set to start before the end of this year.
The New Picture House Cinema has taken the next step toward its new look after Fife Council approved the operator's alcohol license.
Planning permission was granted in July this year to revamp the cinema which opened in the 1930s. The redevelopment is being carried out to prevent the much-loved local picture house from closure.
A-list names including Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods have already backed the project, which will aim to transform the building and give it a new purpose all while maintaining it’s original use as a cinema.
Bosses at T-Squared Social, who are behind the redevelopment, say they’re ‘delighted’ that work can begin this year.
Managing Partner for the group, Christopher Anand said: “We are delighted to be announcing our intention to commence works later this year on this exciting new entertainment concept, including the cinema. It will ensure that a cinema offering can remain in the town for this and for generations to come.
“As we progress with the construction works, we look forward to continuing to engage with the local community and Council on our ongoing activity.”
As part of the new works, two out of three screens in the building, including the main auditorium, are to be retained as part of the cinema offering.
The main auditorium will be used as a multi-functional space, retaining the large screen and still showing films, but also adding a range of sports simulators including golf, rugby, lacrosse and football. The seating in the auditorium will be flexible and allow the dynamics of the room to change on a day-to-day business.
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Bosses say the character of the auditorium will also be protected with existing ceiling, walls, and stage features retained.
One of the screens will be maintained in its present form (cinema 3), with improvements made to the seating and technology to improve the viewing experience. Current seating in Cinema 2 will be replaced with comfortable seat groupings, allowing people to socialise, with an area for electronic darts
Responding to the public the much-loved upper level of the cinema will be staying as it is today, with over 300 seats retained in the venue for cinema-goers.
The Managing Director for New Picture House, David Morris, will stay and manage the transition to the new venture.
He added: “I am delighted to be personally working with T-Squared Social to support the transition of the business to the new venture.
“While inevitably the cinema has had to close to make way for the forthcoming renovation, this is an exciting time for both the cinema and for St Andrews, and I cannot wait to open to doors of this new entertainment offering to the community, ensuring the continuation of an economically viable cinema for the town.”
The cinema is now set to close in mid-September while work is carried out and is estimated to re-open in time for Summer 2025.
All changes in the building will be in the interior bosses have confirmed. The exterior will be left as is to preserve and celebrate the listed building, including the name above the door.
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