The Palace Cinema reopening date in Wiltshire delayed

The Palace Cinema in Devizes Market Place had been expected to be reopened to the public by the end of this year, after closing for a complete refurbishment four years ago.

Owner Picturedrome Cinemas says it is still “100 per cent committed” to reopening the venue, but the project has been hit by fresh delays.

Managing director Adam Cunard told this paper he is now hoping to reopen the century-old building next year, following a downturn in footfall across the cinema industry.

READ MORE: The Palace Cinema in Devizes opens its doors for one day

Inside The Palace Cinema (Image: Trevor Porter)

He said: “There’s not a huge amount to say at the moment because we’ve slowed right down due to funding.

“We’re still 100 per cent committed to reopening the cinema and the first stage is not far off completion, but we have to be cautious.

“We would very much like to get it open next year, and wanted to get it open this year, but it’s a case of what funding will allow.”

Significant work has already taken place at the historic building over the last two years, with more than £1 million put into the project.

The progress so far was showcased during Devizes Heritage Open Day on Saturday, September 14, when some residents raised concerns that they could not see huge amounts of progress since the last open day.

Mr Cunard says the renovation of the cinema is nearing completion and is focusing on heating and ventilation improvements.

He believes that delaying the opening of the cinema and completing the project at a later date will improve its chances of survival in the long term.

Mr Cunard added: “I’d rather be prudent and do things the right way, rather than get ourselves into financial trouble, even if takes a little bit longer.

Inside The Palace Cinema (Image: Trevor Porter) “We’re committed to opening as soon as possible and the project will be completed, we just want to take our time and get the building back to the best possible standard.

“That will happen it’s just a case of being patient and doing it at the right time.”

Mr Cunard is hopeful that Picturedrome, which has owned the venue since 2019, will be able to provide further updates in January.

As well as reopening the cinema, the firm hopes to reintroduce more live performances at The Palace and is exploring possible funding options to boost this plan.