Could the silver screen be coming to Crystal Palace?
Residents campaigning for a cinema to help regenerate the Crystal Place Triangle got a boost this week when independent cinema chain City Screen confirmed it was interested in opening a cinema in the area.
The for-sale Gala Bingo Hall in Church Road, which was once a cinema before it closed down in 1968, is understood to be the prime target for City Screen, the company behind the popular Ritzy and Clapham Picture House theatres.
But some cinema lovers are concerned the hall may already be under offer from a church looking to set up in the area.
Gala refused to comment on whether any bids had yet been put in for the site.
Many residents are backing plans for a cinema because of its wide appeal, and the economic boost they say it would give to the area.
One cinema campaigner said: “It would just be a fantastic thing for the area and the community. It is crying out for it, and I can’t really think of anyone who would object to it.”
The nearest cinemas to the Crystal Palace Triangle are in Streatham, Beckenham, and Croydon.
Andy Stem, who owns vintage shop Bambinos in Church Road, said: “What happens to the hall is crucial to the fortunes of the triangle. Its a key building. A cinema would provide a community space that everyone would want to use, and also bring new people to the area.”
“It would really help the redevelopment of the area,” he added.
Residents in favour of the cinema met outside the Gala Bingo on Saturday to show their support.
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