Reopening of York’s Odeon cinema hailed by political and tourism chiefs (From York Press)

Reopening of York’s Odeon cinema hailed by political and tourism chiefs

10:30am Friday 15th May 2009 in News By Mark Stead, mark.stead@thepress.co.uk

Reel Cinema’s building director, Graeme Mitchell, outside York’s Odeon Cinema

THE imminent reopening of York’s Odeon cinema after a wait of nearly three years has been hailed by political and tourism chiefs as a massive show of faith in the city.

As exclusively revealed by The Press, work on refurbishing the Blossom Street landmark is earmarked to be completed by June 8 – which means it could be ready to welcome its first customers by the middle of next month.

The picturehouse was bought last January by Reel Cinema (UK) Ltd. Teams of workmen are currently carrying out an extensive revamp of its interior – although the building’s Grade II-listed, art deco façade will be retained.

Reel’s managing director, Kailash Suri, has said the new cinema – the name of which has yet to be finalised, although the original Odeon signs are to remain – will create 25 full and part-time jobs, bringing to an end a saga which began when the building closed in August 2006.

City of York Council’s leader, Andrew Waller, said the news, amid the woe of the credit crunch, was an economic shot in the arm for York. “It’s great that the Odeon is to be brought back to life and it’s tremendous to see people are still investing in York and growing its night-time economy,” he said.

“A lot of weight has been put on retaining its original features, and for somebody to demonstrate they can work with that rather than against it is to be complimented. It shows development can happen in York.”

Gillian Cruddas, chief executive of tourism body Visit York, said the Odeon’s rebirth would boost York’s cultural image.

“We’re delighted – York has a thriving cultural and arts scene and this new addition will only help to enhance that reputation,” she said.

“There’s been a revival in cinema-going over the last few years, and we’re confident both residents and visitors will support this initiative, which is yet another fantastic new amenity for the city.”

The new cinema will initially have three screens, although Reel may look at enhancing its facilities once it is back in business.

Coun Sandy Fraser, whose Micklegate ward the Odeon site lies within, said: “In difficult economic times, this is very encouraging, and will contribute to the work we are trying to do to regenerate Blossom Street and Micklegate.

“The cinema is on the approach to York’s prime gateway and its reopening will help make the area more vibrant. It will also be welcomed by nearby pubs and cafés, as it will encourage more footfall.”

And Susie Cawood, head of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s fantastic news – we are very positive about York’s future despite the economic climate and for something like this to be happening reflects why that is.

“The fact Reel has chosen York shows the city is going places.”