Chance to 'be a part of the story' as roof slates sold in final stage to restore Paignton Picture House
It's hoped an historic Devon cinema - which is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe - could finally reopen in 2026
Last updated 10th Jul 2024
The team trying to save an historic Devon cinema - which is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe - say the response to their latest appeal has been amazing so far.
More than £8million has already been raised to save Paignton Picture House, which opened from 1914 to the late 1990s.
Project Manager Jospehine Brown said: "We know that crime writer Agatha Christie used to come here with her family. It's been a really important part of people's lives, they've come here for birthdays and first dates and met their husband and wife here.
"They were dropped off as kids for Saturday morning film club and people just love it in the community."
Roof tiles are now being sold - which people can decorate - to help raise extra money under a 'Stories Under the Slates' idea. They can be accessed via the new community space opposite, called The Projection Room.
Ms Brown added: "We need at least 2,500 new slates to up onto this roof and we thought it would be really wonderful for the community of Paignton and those far and wide who love picture house to be a part of its story now but also into the future."
"We are calling on everyone who has ever enjoyed a film at the Paignton Picture House, who values the importance of preserving our heritage, or who shares our ambitions for the future of Paignton, to join us in this final push," she added.
"Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference."
The Paignton Picture House Trust says the iconic cinema, one of the oldest surviving purpose-built cinemas in Europe, 'has been a cherished landmark in Paignton since it first opened its doors in 1914'.
Paul Hawthorne, Chair of the Paignton Picture House Trust, added: "The cinema closed for the final time in 1999, and the Grade II listed building has been lying vacant and deteriorating ever since. Surveys showed that the building was at risk of complete loss without major restoration. The restoration project, which aims to preserve and rejuvenate this architectural gem, has made significant progress with successful fundraising delivering several phases of conservation work and emergency repairs in recent years.
"Most of the £8.3m needed for the main restoration project has now been raised, and an “enabling package” of work was completed earlier this year. There is still £1.6m left to raise towards this target so that Paignton Picture House can reopen its doors once again and become a vibrant independent cinema and cultural hub for the community.
"We are thrilled with the progress we've made so far, and we will continue to apply for more grants, but we now need the local community to come together to fundraise and donate so that we can bring this project to completion.
"Paignton Picture House is more than just a building; it is a symbol of our town's rich heritage and a beacon for future cultural and artistic endeavours. By contributing to this appeal, you are not only helping to preserve an important piece of history but also investing in the future of Paignton."
In 2022 we went to look around the building:
The funds raised through the public appeal will be used to complete essential work on the building, including restoring the original art deco interiors, upgrading the seating and projection facilities, and ensuring the venue is fully accessible and compliant with modern standards.
The charity also plans to create a cafe and community space within Paignton Picture House, offering a variety of activities, events, and learning opportunities to engage and inspire people of all ages.
The Paignton Picture House team will now run a series of events and activities and is asking local groups, businesses, and individuals to get behind the appeal by holding their own fundraising events, choosing us as their charity of the year, or by simply donating.