The former theatre will house community events. Credit: Neil Holmes

National Picture Theatre restoration begins

29 July 2024 12:00 Comments (0)

Contractor Hobson & Porter has started work at the grade two-listed cinema on Hull’s Beverley Road.

The 1914-built, 1,050-seat cinema has been described as the “last surviving civilian bomb-damaged building” from World War II and was listed in 2007.

Hobson & Porter’s work is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Hull City Council and the National Civilian World War II Memorial Trust.

Works to preserve the site for future generations include the replacement of period windows, stabilisation and restoration of the red brick façade and new lighting.

The open space where the auditorium once stood will be used to create a flexible education and community events area and war memorial, enabling visitors to learn about the life of civilians in wartime.

Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture at Hull CC, said: “There are so many stories within the National Picture Theatre that are of national importance, and to have the opportunity to give it the attention it deserves is fantastic.

“I would like to thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for recognising the significance of this project and the local community for their continued support now and going forward. I am looking forward to seeing the restoration progress.”

Hobson & Porter was appointed in spring.

The firm’s managing director, Richard Hunter, said: “Having been based in Hull since 1971, we have seen the cinema sadly fall into a sorry state and feel hugely proud to have been chosen to restore such a significant, historic landmark in the city.

“In recent years we are proud to have worked with Hull City Council on a number of heritage projects in the city including the recommissioning of the iconic Guildhall time ball, the refurbishment of Beverley Road baths and the repurposing of the former city archives at 79 Lowgate.”

The restoration programme is expected to take around five months to complete.

Helen Featherstone, director for the North of England at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s very exciting to see work on the National Picture Theatre get under way. This project will not only restore and preserve the heritage building for future generations, it will also connect visitors from near and far with its unique story.”