The buildings of Cambridge are known for being grand, Victorian affairs. Yet more recent history and beauty also punctuate the town’s skyline. A famous Art Deco cinema, the façade of which has become a highlight of Cambridge’s walkways, has recently been saved from a last-minute reprieve. This has raised serious questions about its future uses. 

Developers Blocked From Knocking Down Hobson Street Cinema

The 1930s cinema on Hobson Street had been earmarked for demolition under development plans. This move was subsequently blocked by Cambridge City Council, and an appeal was soon forthcoming. A planning inspector has now sided with the council, meaning the building will remain intact. 

The site has been owned by Mark Richer for more than a decade. He said that he has been trying to find new owners and a use for the building, to no avail. He added that something needed to be done to “stop the rot and breathe in fresh life”. 

Situated in a conservation area, the council noted that it had a moderate degree of significance for being there and due to its own merits. To knock it down would reduce the historic fabric and diminish the special character of the street. They also acknowledged that a new use will be unlikely to be found for it as a whole, suggesting they may be open to keeping the façade but changing the building. 

The History of Hobson Street Cinema

Opening on October 11th 1930, the Central Cinema itself replaced a smaller picture house that had been on the site. It was badly damaged by fire in 1939, after which its roof collapsed. Despite the war efforts, it was replaced and operational once more by the next year. 

By 1972, it had, like many cinemas of this era, suffered declining footfall due to the introduction of television. It was then taken over by a series of bingo providers, who gave it life once more. However, its last owner left in 2009. Since then, it has remained empty, with little interest from retail or entertainment groups. 

Uncertain Futures

The big question remains regarding what the space could now become. Ideas for this may come from its bingo hall past, a pastime that is currently enjoying a renaissance. This due not only to its ability to attract new demographics via online play but also its diversification into becoming a hybrid provider of iGaming solutions like slot games. This sector now even has its own popular franchises like Sweet Candy Blitz and Mega Zeus. If spaces can be harnessed that allow people to play these types of games in physical locations, the past may be the key to their future.

Other solutions could be live entertainment venues, dipping into comedy and music. This has been done successfully elsewhere in the country and has transformed many similar buildings from his era. The difference here is that Cambridge already has a large number of arts venues, and another may be surplus to requirements. 

What this does show is that Cambridge City Council is working hard to preserve the past. With the right investment and innovation, Cambridge can retain its unique façades while looking to the future. 

Please gamble responsibly.