Help restore cinema to its former glory

That is the question Pontefract Civic Society is asking as it seeks more ideas from people living in the town on the future use of the Ropergate building.

The cinema has not been used since it closed in 1993 but the society and members of The Crescent Project wants to restore it with money from grants.

Phillip Cook, chairman of the restoration project group, said: “The Crescent building stands at the west end of Ropergate and has an imposing frontage making it a landmark in the town.

“It is our hope that the Crescent Project can bring back into use back parts of the building which have been neglected for years, and restore the building to its former glory. making it a major attraction for the town and a resource for its community.”

The group has launched a specialist website for people to submit their ideas and share their memories of the building.

It also said it also hopes to open up the facility to theatre groups in the town as part of its plans.

Mr Cook said: “This is a long-term project. The building is in a sorry state and it will take considerable funds to return it to its former glory.

“It is essential, therefore, that we have a clear idea as to what the community would like it to be and are fully involved in making it happen”.

The Crescent Cinema opened on November 2, 1926 and within the complex was the 1,190 seat cinema which had a fully equipped stage with associated dressing rooms, a cafe and a substantial dance hall.

For more information on the project or to share your ideas visit www.the-crescent.org.uk