Discover how we can save our cinema.
We are blessed in Bognor Regis with our own distinctive cinema, visited by generations of local residents, which continues to provide a good choice of the latest films, for all tastes, at even more reasonable prices.
Now The Picturedrome Cinema, nearly 100 years old, and only recently awarded a Grade II Listing, is under threat. Within days of the Listing being confirmed, a planning application has been submitted by the freehold owners, to convert the main screen area into four flats.
Bognor is not noted for an abundance of old buildings of unusual character. Over the years it seems that scant regard has been given to protecting some of our finer buildings, or keeping them within reach of local residents.
This latest attack on our remaining heritage could see the loss of a major part of the building, along with many of its' art deco features, from 1911, including the ornate barreled ceiling, to we, the present custodians of our town.
Moreover it could see us without a proper cinema for the first time in approximately 100 years, and prevent us having the benefit of the blockbusters and mainstream films put out by the major film distributors. At the moment we can enjoy the latest movies at a bargain price of only £2.50 each. You can easily pay from £7.40 upwards for the same programmes out of Bognor Regis, and have all the travel there and back to worry about. Contact The Picturedrome Cinema for cinema listings and cinema times.
So, how can you help save our Cinema? Two things – firstly attend the meeting being held on Tuesday 1st September, at The Picturedrome Cinema itself, to be chaired by the Bognor Regis Civic Society, to hear more about the proposals, and give your support to help save the Cinema. Secondly you can submit your comments directly to Arun District Council Planning Department at 1 Maltravers Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 5LF, by 10th September. You will need to quote the two planning reference numbers BR/182/09/L & BR/181/09/ (or you can submit your comments online at Arun District Coucil’s website).
Help save our cinema, before it is too late.
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