The proposals will see the cinema reopened, with plans for community activities
A much-loved cinema is set to return to a town on the Cambridgeshire border after a two-year closure. Royston Town Council voted on a proposal to relaunch the Town Hall as The Royston Venue, on Monday, January 19.
The Royston Picture Palace has been closed for two years. Councillor Ed Nutting, who led the development of the plan, said: “I want to thank the people of Royston for the support they’ve shown for bringing the cinema back and for backing a more ambitious vision for the Town Hall.
“This has taken persistence and hard work, but we now have a plan that reopens film screenings, creates a true community hub, and does so without placing a major financial burden on the town.”
The proposal reimagines the Town Hall as a flexible venue for screening films, while opening the doors to activities for all ages.
The plans include regular film screenings and a restored stage. They include space for pantomimes, live performances, dance and exercise classes, cookery workshops, parties, and community groups such as a Silver Sunday club.
Liberal Democrat councillors, who backed the plan, explained that it represents community leadership, and a new chapter for one of Royston’s most important buildings. The proposal aims to make better use of an existing town asset while keeping activities affordable and accessible.
Councillor Tim Johnson said: “A huge amount of work has gone into learning from the past and building something sustainable for the future, and I’m genuinely excited to see The Royston Venue get started.”
