Work is under way on a major redevelopment of Keswick’s historic cinema which will create a bar for the first time.
The structural internal project, costing a substantial six-figure sum, will also see a second smaller screen open up and a revamped foyer.
And there are plans for external improvements involving the original brick facade being re-pointed and windows repaired, including two circular, stained-glass ones at the front.
But this extra work, estimated at around £15,000, has been put on hold to allow the main work to be financed first.
The cinema remains closed because of lockdown and although it could reopen from May 17, it is likely to stay shut until late summer before the launch of the next James Bond film, which is expected to attract full houses.
Meanwhile, the men’s toilets have already been demolished to open up space for a bar, which will have previously boarded-up windows opening on to St John’s Street.
The old kiosk and disabled toilet have also made way for the new 30-seat screen, along with the back four rows of the main stalls.
The smaller screen and its seating will be encased in a giant concrete shell to soundproof it from the main cinema.
The work is being carried out by Keswick-based Fell Building and Home Renovations, with the cinema’s new director Jonathan Moore being project manager.
Fellow director Carol Rennie said: “We have quotes from local companies to repoint the iconic but leaking red Accrington brick frontage with traditional limestone mortar.
“The estimated £15,000 cost is beyond our budget but if anyone wishes to support us, we’d be very grateful to hear from them!”
