Marlbrough’s Cinema gets go-ahead

The Parade Cinema, soon to be Marlborough’s first dedicated cinema for well over forty years has been given the green light by Wiltshire Council’s Planners. Work can restart with a target opening date of Autumn next year.

Whilst outline permission was secured last year the Board of the cinema (Image Cinemas Ltd) have announced that full planning permission and listed building consent has been granted so that Marlborough residents will finally be able to enjoy an independent, community-focused cinema, bar & cafe to the heart of the town.

Chairman of Image Cinemas Robert Hiscox said “Marlborough hasn’t had a cinema for over 40 years, and is crying out for a place to gather, watch good films and meet friends.  We hope to start work in early September on both the Chapel and The Manse.  We have a committed team in place – all working hard to get this project through to completion: Tim Lawson is the Project Manager working alongside Hiscox Parladé Architects.  Claire Beswick is an expert in cinema set up and Caroline Wrench is an expert in catering and customer experience including marketing.”

Whatever the ‘pandemic landscape’ is next Autumn and how it develops between now and when the cinema opens the Board were keen to stress that they will be complying with all Government Covid guidelines so that the cinema will be safe and as comfortable as possible for all visitors and staff.  

A new website: www.theparadecinema.com has been launched to provide regular updates regarding the project is developing.  Those interested are encouraged to sign up for e-mail updates.

The new cinema is to become a core part of Marlborough’s cultural environment. The Board are keen to grow strong links with the local community, to support events, schools, charities and groups.  

There will be many opportunities to support the project including becoming a ‘Friend’ of the cinema which will give early booking access, discounts on tickets, drinks & food as well as regular newsletters and film information.  

Image Cinemas recognise how the support from the community has helped move the project forward and made the following note of thanks: “We are very grateful for the enormous amount of goodwill and encouragement we have received from our community with nearly 200 letters of support to Wiltshire Council.”