10:41am Saturday 14th November 2009
A conservation officer has said he cannot support proposed internal alterations to the former Odeon building which would allow for the installation of a small fourth screen.
Reel, which re-opened the Blossom Street picturehouse earlier this year following a refurbishment, wants to create the 40-seat screen in former offices on the first floor. Boss Kailash Suri has said the extra screen would be a very important addition, allowing the company to show more films and stage special screenings.
But conservation officer Mark Barratt said in a report that while the conversion of the office could “potentially be supported,” he is opposed to some of the proposed alterations to the Art Deco Grade II listed building.
“The proposed insertion of flat plasterboard studwork in the former office area hides the curve of the internal wall and windows from view,” he said. “In doing so, this fails to preserve the character of the building as one of special architectural or historic interest.” He said applicants for listed building consent had to be able to justify their proposals and explain why works which affected their character were desirable or necessary. “In this instance, there is no explanation of how the proposals was arrived at, and less intrusive options aimed at attenuating external noise do not appear to have been considered.” He said the effect on the building’s external appearance had not been considered either.
“Although I could support the conversion of the office and ancillary rooms to a cinema screen, I am of the opinion that the alterations proposed harm the character of the building.
“A revised scheme, with a full written justification, which preserves both the historic fabric and key design features of the building, could be supported.”
Mr Suri said was unavailable for comment.
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