A CONTEMPORARY VISION FOR THE FORMER GRANADA CINEMA, WALTHAMSTOW

Reinventing an extraordinary heritage to create 21st century entertainment in an Olympic borough. A CONTEMPORARY VISION FOR THE FORMER GRANADA CINEMA, WALTHAMSTOW

CONTENTS A vision rooted in the local community 1 Our vision that unites the ambitions of local businesses, 2 The team the local authority policies of the Mayor of 3 Heritage London, Arts Council England, political parties 4 Future programme and the people of Waltham Forest; this project 5 Architectural plans has successfully engaged leading cultural 6 What do local organisations and architects to create a viable people want? and compelling vision for the future of this 7 Finance historic building.

Waltham Forest Cinema Trust and Soho Theatre

‘Soho Theatre is a powerful comedy venue, now known internationally as the place for comedians to perform in London. I have performed there many times, often trying out new work. Their plans for a larger venue at the former Granada are very positive and, from a performer’s perspective, it makes all the difference that the people running it have a passion for performance in general and comedy in particular. My first ever gig in London was at a small club in Walthamstow and it would be a fine idea to be able to return to Walthamstow and play one of the Front Cover: The former Granada Cinema © McGuffin and Cinema Theatre Association. newest venues in London.”’ Opposite page: Main auditorium of the former Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association. This page: The former Granada Cinema welcomes Eddie Izzard comedy © Cinema Theatre Association

1 OUR VISION THE TEAM

Our vision is to create an iconic cultural Subject to further discussion and detail, venue with a programme that is contemporary, the current team includes: inclusive and respectful of this building’s Waltham Forest Cinema Trust remarkable heritage The Trust’s founding directors are rooted in the local community. They have excellent fundraising experience and a track record of delivering similar projects. Our vision will: • bring an audience to Walthamstow from across London and beyond; Soho Theatre • create a high quality cultural offer in a Borough with One of the capital’s most successful cultural venues, Soho limited provision; Theatre runs a vibrant comedy and theatre programme, and • be a driver for economic regeneration working has successfully delivered an £11 million capital project. alongside the planned multiplex and other local businesses to have a transformative effect on Hoe Street. Curzon London’s leading independent cinema company will We will work with the very best people to create a programme three cinema screens equipped with the 21st Century version of the original cine-variety theatre. latest digital technology. The programme and activities will include: nn live comedy, performance and special events in the restored main auditorium with 1,000 capactiy; Royal Shakespeare Company One of the world’s best known theatre company’s already nn live streaming of major cultural and sporting events; work within Waltham Forest and plan to develop more nn a year round bespoke cinema programme with work for young people and schools in the borough. three new screens specialising in independent films; nn an independent restaurant and bar catering for the Blonde to Black Pictures local community and visiting audiences; Sadie Frost’s film production company with partner Emma nn space for education, talent development Comley, will develop new film projects, nurture new talent and heritage projects. and foster collaborations.

Ian Ritchie CBE One of the UK’s leading architects with more than 60 awards, is leading the design team to restore the building.

2 3 WALTHAM FOREST SOHO CINEMA TRUST THEATRE

Waltham Forest Cinema Trust is a local company formed in December Soho Theatre is London’s most vibrant venue for new writing, 2010. Its aims are to purchase, restore and re-open the former Granada comedy and cabaret. cinema in Hoe Street, Walthamstow to the general public. It is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity (no.1144168). It brings audiences of over 130,000 a year through its doors as well as reaching many more people through presenting work at the Edinburgh Registered in Waltham Forest, the Trust’s founding directors have strong Festival and elsewhere, and through developing projects such as its links to the local community, excellent fundraising experience and a track partner venue in Bangalore, India, and a digital arm to provide online record of delivering similar projects. content.

Inspired by the Locum Consulting report in summer 2010, the Trust’s It owns the freehold for its building in the heart of the West End from founders looked afresh at how a venue on that scale could operate today which it runs three performance spaces and a bar. This opened 12 years when most cinemas have smaller capacities, modern facilities and are ago after an £11m capital project which combined Lottery funding with multi-screen. The programme mix gave an answer which, in fact, harked private finance and philanthropic giving to create a mixed use residential, back to the venue’s heyday. entertainment and catering operation.

By April 2011 the Trust had produced a document outlining their vision. At It currently operates through two companies: Soho Theatre, a registered charity a time when public funding is extremely scarce, both Arts Council England funded by Arts Council England; and Soho Theatre Bar, a commercial trading and Waltham Forest Council found this compelling enough to take the subsidiary which runs the cabaret performance space and busy bar. necessary leap of faith to fund the next stage to test feasibility. Soho Theatre has a distinguished Board of Trustees which is chaired by This led to the appointment of Ian Ritchie Architects to create the scheme, Nicholas Allott, Managing Director of the Cameron Mackintosh Group of and a highly experienced team of arts consultant and industry experts Companies. Its Artistic Director is Steve Marmion, one of the UK’s most to assess the business model. The consultancy team are Bryan Savery; exciting theatre directors, and Executive Director is Mark Godfrey, who ran Richard Oyarzabal; Graham Devlin OBE; and Sue Storr. Soho’s capital project and has extensive theatre management experience.

The Trust is chaired by former MP Neil Gerrard and includes local residents Soho Theatre is a leading player in the fast-growing comedy market. Its James Atkinson, Development Director Soho Theatre; Mark Godfrey, Executive programme is carefully curated and makes it one of the most prestigious Director, Soho Theatre; Bill Hodgson, McGuffin Film Society; Roxana Silbert, venues in the country with extensive contacts across the comedy industry in Artistic Director, Birmingham Rep; and Toby Stone, great nephew of Sidney the UK and internationally. It presents the biggest stars alongside emerging Bernstein, the founder of Granada Cinema Chain. names and regularly travels to the comedy festivals in Edinburgh, Montreal and Melbourne, presenting work there and seeking out the best new talent.

Granada Cinema in its heyday Soho Theatre and and in its disused state. its cabaret bar.

4 5 CURZON ROYAL CINEMAS SHAKESPEARE COMPANY

Curzon Cinemas is London’s leading independent cinema chain. The RSC is one of the world’s best known theatre companies.

Working with Curzon Cinemas we could run a cinema programme from Its mission is to connect people with Shakespeare and produce bold, the venue’s three digital screens with a total capacity of 350. ambitious work with living writers, actors and artists.

Curzon is London’s leading independent cinema chain. They celebrated Based in Stratford-upon-Avon, home to the Royal Shakespeare and Swan their 75th anniversary in 2009 and currently operate six venues across Theatres (reopened in 2010 after a £112.8m transformation to bring actors the capital – Curzon Mayfair, Soho, Renoir, Chelsea , Richmond and and audiences closer together), the RSC also plays regularly in London, hmvcurzon in Wimledon. Their flagship venue in Soho is the UK’s Newcastle and on tour around the UK and across the world. During 2012, busiest independent cinema and regularly hosts director Q&A sessions, the RSC produced the World Shakespeare Festival as part of the Cultural documentary events and much more; it was also voted London’s Number Olympiad. One cinema by Time Out readers. The company also runs a much-admired education programme, working In Wimbledon, they have successfully run their distinctive brand of with teachers to inspire a life-long love of Shakespeare in young people programming within the HMV store, alongside a nearby multiplex cinema, and run events for everyone to explore and participate in its work. The RSC in a flourishing venture which has increased the overall local market for would like to extend these events and activities to more people in East cinema. London. Through partnering with organisations like the RSC, we can bring excellent arts education provision to Waltham Forest and broaden the Curzon also programmes the film strands in Bridport Arts Centre, opportunities available to local people. The Brewhouse in Taunton, The Hawth in Crawley and The Watermark in Ivybridge, Devon.

The Swan Theatre, RSC Curzon Cinema, Soho exterior in Stratford Upon Avon. The bar at Curzon Cinema, Soho An RSC young people’s © Curzon Cimema theatre workshop © RSC.

6 7 BLONDE TO IAN RITCHIE BLACK PICTURES ARCHITECTS

Sadie Frost and her business partner Emma Comley’s production ‘It’s not often that architects Established in 1981, Ian Ritchie Architects has an international company Blonde to Black Pictures will work with the venue to reputation for outstanding architecture, intelligent environmental develop new film projects, nurture new talent and foster creative exceed expectations - if only and sustainable design and technical innovation. collaborations. because most clients’ hopes are often unreasonably Ian Ritchie was elected a Royal Academician in 1998, and RA Professor of As an actress Sadie has performed on stage and in over 20 films which Architecture in 2004. He created Ian Ritchie Architects in London and Rice included working with Francis Ford Coppola. In the mid nineties she high. Our hopes were Francis Ritchie (RFR) design engineers in Paris. formed Natural Nylon with Jude Law, Ewan McGregor, Sean Pertwee, exactly that - and we got Jonny Lee Miller and Bradley Adams. The company produced eXistenZ, more, and better, than we The practice specialises in performance spaces having designed award directed by renowned writer director David Chronenberg, which was winning theatres for high-profile clients, including the Royal Shakespeare followed by Nora, XX/XY, Owning Mahowny and To Kill a King. bargained for, on time and Company and Plymouth Theatre Royal. on budget. Watching the first Later Sadie produced the short film Come What May with Rhys Ifans and public performance from the His practice has also helped realise major architecture, structures and the fashion film Enchantment with Helena Christensen and Liberty Ross, sculpture throughout Europe, including the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern then directing her own short film Mrs Olsen. She co-produced Love, furthest seat was proof that Art in Madrid, the Louvre Sculpture Courts and Pyramids, the Leipzig Glass Honour and Obey starring Jude Law and Ray Winston, and Sky Captain we had achieved our aims for Hall, French electricity pylons, The Spire - Ireland’s national monument and starring Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie. our audience, in a splendid the RSC Courtyard Theatre. Most recently Sadie has been working with her co-writer Lucie Barat on new and charismatic setting.’ His architectural practice has received 60 national and international pictures Hippy Kids and Dirty Hair which will go into production later this year. awards, been shortlisted four times for the Stirling Prize and he was the With Emma Comley their production company Blonde To Black Pictures has a Sir Christopher Bland first foreign architect to receive the French Academie d’Architecture Grand slate of five films, two of them going into pre-production this year. on Ian Ritchie Architects Silver Medal for Innovation. Former chairman of BBC and Sadie writes for three women’s magazines and has two fashion companies – the successful Floozie and Iris and Edie. Her fashion label Frostfrench BT, retired chairman of RSC received Elle style award for best designer. She also has a skin care range launching next year called Palm Springs.

Sadie Frost at the press night of Touched at Soho Theatre with guests Kate Moss and Ian Ritchie Ronnie Wood © Dan Wooller An Ian Ritchie Architects design © IRAL

8 9 HERITAGE

The former Granada Cinema in Walthamstow is a Grade II* listed building in recognition of its architectural and cultural significance. It is one of the finest cinemas of its kind in the UK, and one of the few remaining cinemas that has the potential to be renovated and returned to wider public use as a heritage asset and viable entertainment and cinema venue – the purpose for which it was originally designed. Built as part of the Granada empire by Sidney Bernstein, to the design of Cecil Massey with fine Art Deco and Moorish style, the interiors were by celebrated Russian stage designer Theodore Komisarjevsky. It also houses the only example of a Christie organ which is still in it’s original setting. The former Granada Cinema, and its predecessors on the site, mean that 186 Hoe Street has been important to the people of Walthamstow as a place of entertainment since 1887. It has been an important social focus for the community for over a century. The building has always served as more than just a cinema. In its heyday, the venue hosted concerts by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Duke Ellington, Johnny Cash and others – huge stars who had crowds queuing down Hoe Street to get in. It featured a restaurant and hosted a regular Christmas

season panto. Main auditorium of the former Granada Cinema © Press Association We believe this heritage should be cherished – and as much as this project is about finding a sustainable future for this building, it is also about re-connecting with its past. Walthamstow residents going back several generations have ‘The UK is a nation of film lovers with memories of attending the former Granada Cinema. This project will enable a proud film heritage. Many older them to once again enjoy this important part of their heritage and celebrate it. It will help explain the significance of this building, and the wider community in cinemas across the country have been which it was built and operated, to a new generation. successfully restored and revived, and We will work with English Heritage and expert conservationists to restore the are thriving in the digital age. We need glorious original features of the building, enabling local people to gain skills to cherish our cultural and sporting and learn about restoring historic buildings throughout the process. institutions, both of which share We will work with the British Film Institute and other film industry and heritage the ability to bring together diverse organisations to create interactive displays based on the building and other communities, to create opportunity and to archive materials, and facilitate interpretation and learning opportunities. We will reconfirm this building at the heart of its community, and broaden access to develop new talent. These plans give the people from further afield through digitisation of the archive, organised tours and former Granada the means to do exactly lectures. that and they have my full support.’ We will ensure that it is not just ticket buyers that benefit from a restored venue, but that local people and the wider community can access, and benefit Heather Rabbatts CBE from, the building throughout the year. Director of the Football Association, We hope to create new special moments in the history of this glorious Trustee of the Royal Opera House & former building, by respecting its best traditions while bringing the building into board member of the UK Film Council the 21st century.

10 11 FUTURE ...here in PROGRAMME... walthamstow

Imagine joining us Imagine a stunning art deco building at the centre of its Year round cinema FILM: for events like the community with thrilling live performances, year round and special themed cinema and an innovative education programme. There will be three dedicated screens offering year round quality Opening Ceremony one-off events... independent cinema. Alongside this, we have the opportunity to use the live streamed in the The strength of the team assembled here will ensure a programme of main auditorium to screen one-off’s of the biggest blockbusters, classics a high quality and broad range. This will be a venue which balances or film premieres in what will be one of London’s largest and most striking main auditorium... curatorial decisions with financial considerations to ensure the right cinema venues. mix of risk, profile, audience development and artistic merit. Working with Sadie Frost’s Blonde to Black production company, Curzon This will be a local venue with a national profile - a venue that serves and others, means that we will be connected to the production of cinema its community while attracting international names and events. and will placed to attract events such as film festivals, Secret Cinema (cinema and live performance), Q&As with directors and actors and work from local filmmakers. LIVE:

Alongside its role as a leading venue for comedy, the auditorium will an education EDUCATION: be able to host and present a broad range of work. programme aimed Working with the RSC, Soho Theatre and other leaders in the field means This will vary from headline comedy acts recording a DVD to big name at participation... or a gospel choir that we can create the innovative and high quality education programmes bands wanting a more intimate space to launch a stadium tour. It could be working with people in the borough and beyond. live performance... live streaming of major cultural or sporting events – think the Olympics or the Metropolitan Opera live from New York. It could re a radical hip-hop For many young people, this can be transformative, giving valuable life version of a Shakespeare or the final of a street dance competition; a skills and a way into the opportunities and insights that access to arts and talent show, a gospel choir or a recital from the Christie organ. entertainment can offer. Once a year, we aim to present an annual panto. Soho Theatre Artistic Director Steve Marmion has created critically acclaimed national pantos providing not to be missed family entertainment for the whole community and these will become a regular feature to compete with very best.

or seeing and an annual Eddie Izzard panto with discounted performing tickets for local in Hoe St. schools and families

12 13 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PLANS TEAM

Summary of the architectural proposal Working with Ian Ritchie Architects Ltd are:

The brief from the client was very clear - to cherish the rich heritage of this Cost Consultant: Equals (Steve Bundy) wonderful building while also ensuring it can work exceptionally well as a Equals is an independent project and cost management consultancy contemporary entertainment venue. Integrating these two demands requires formed by highly experienced construction industry professionals. care and thought, but together will create a building that audiences will love. Structural Engineer: WSP (Bill Price, David Lumsden) The Main Auditorium will be designed as a live performance venue and will be WSP is a large multidisciplinary company providing a full range of services operated separately from the cinema and restaurant functions therefore the to the property, transportation and the environmental sectors. architectural proposal makes clear division between these two parts. Services Engineer: King Shaw Associates (Doug King) For clarity, we will refer to the Main Auditorium and its support spaces as Part King Shaw Associates Consulting Engineers provide thoughtful 1 (indicated in red tones on the sketches) and street front part of the building, engineering design for clients and architects wishing to build high quality, accommodating restaurants, cinemas, and educational spaces as Part 2 environmentally responsible buildings. (indicated in blue and green). Acoustic Engineers: Paul Gillieron Acoustic Design (Paul Gillieron) Since the capacity of the former Granada cinema of about 2700 people would As one of the UK’s leading acoustic consultancies, PGAD have been not be supportable (sanitary facilities, fire strategy), and the large distances responsible for the acoustic design of a large number of high quality from the stage (in the excess of 40 metres) are not desirable in the modern auditoria with excellent acoustics, since 1984, specialising in the acoustic live performance context, the main auditorium will be reduced in size. modelling of theatres, concert halls and cinemas.

The back of the stalls will be turned into a bar and support spaces while Theatre Specialist: FDA - Fisher Dachs Associates the upper circle will be divided off from the lower circle and converted into Theatre Planning and Design (Flip Tanner) cinema screens and linked to Part 2 at the second floor level. This reduction in Fisher Dachs Associates is one of the world’s leading theatre planning and size will result in better acoustic qualities as well as shorter viewing distances. design consultants. The reduced sized main auditorium will have a capacity of 1,000 people (stalls and lower circle combined) and will be a venue for live comedy, performance Heritage Architect Consultant: and special events. Donald Insall Associates (Cordula Zeidler) Donald Insall Associates is a firm of chartered architects, historic The space will also be suitable for special cinema screenings, such as live building and planning consultants with over fifty years experience in the screenings of major cultural and sporting events. conservation, repair and adaptation of historic buildings.

Permanent cinema functions will be accommodated in a proposed new Fire Engineer (01): International Fire Consultants Ltd - build construction located in between the existing front facade and the IFC Group (Paul Harris) main auditorium. International Fire Consultants Ltd (IFC) is a major force delivering high quality fire safety solutions. As part of the listed heritage fabric the front facade will be kept and refurbished and the existing Entrance Lobby, Foyers and Main Auditorium Building Surveyors: Goodman Mann Broomhall (Henry J. Watson) will be restored. Goodman Mann Broomhall is a practice of Chartered Surveyors who provide specialised advice on commercial property in the fields of A proposed new construction will bridge over the Lobby and Main Foyer to investment and professional services with an emphasis on building create a second floor level. Adjacent to the main auditorium building a new surveying and portfolio management. stair and lift core is proposed dedicated to the functions housed in the Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © McGuffin. street front part of the building (Part 2). Main auditorium of the former Granada Cinema © McGuffin. The former Granada Cinema © Dusashenka Ian Ritchie CBE

14 15 Ground Floor Plan

16 First Floor Plan

18 Second Floor Plan

20 21 Section AA

22 Section BB

24 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL PROPOSAL.

Ground Floor (Part 1) Stage [00.14] First Floor (Part 1) The space above the Entrance Lobby Screen 01 and Screen 02 will be Educational space(s) [02.04] Lobby [00.01] Will be restored and redesigned as Landing [01.01] and adjacent to the Main Foyer will formed from the upper circle of The educational space is proposed to be especially beautiful. The large the existing main auditorium. The The existing Lobby will be refurbished in required and made larger. be at the centre of the floor, adjacent existing windows of the front facade structure and enclosing walls of to the Roof Terrace Cafe/Bar. The one line with its 1930’s decor. Upper Foyer [01.02] will be refurbished to provide an these screens will be isolated from large space can be divided into 2 or 4 Proscenium wings [00.14 & 00.15] The Upper Foyer will be refurbished abundance of light. This natural light the existing structure to achieve the smaller (class) rooms if required. Box Office [00.02] Will be restored and redesigned / restored and could accommodate will be transferred to the Main Foyer required acoustic insulation to enable The former box office will be restored to as required. Design options will be various functions. Could be used by the introduction of a new glazed simultaneous performance in the Main Roof Terrace Cafe/Bar [02.05] its original function. explored at the next stage. for exhibition space or a themed bar opening where the existing balcony Auditorium and the cinema screens. Bar and supporting areas [00.05] (related to cinema history), serving the used to be. This will be the only visual Screen 03 will be located in the street The Roof Terrace Cafe is proposed to audience of the lower circle therefore link between the two different parts front part of the building, on the new be the heart of the Cinema/Education The adjoining bar will take most of the Main Foyer [00.03] easing the pressure on the main bar at of the building providing the diners second floor. floor and envisaged to be in stark former back of the stalls area and be The main double height foyer will be the back of the stalls. and guests a view into the refurbished All three cinema screens will be contrast with the dark, blacked out separated by acoustic lobbies from the restored / refurbished to its 1930’s The Upper Foyer will be made Main Foyer. served through the new main stair cinema spaces bringing a flood of light stalls. This bar will be able to operate glory. A new opening will be formed to accessible through a new lift core. The former fire escape stairs will to the centre of the floor. separately from the Main Auditorium. enable access to a new lift which would accessed from the main foyer. There is be restored and serve as fire escape With its envisaged openable glass roof The maximum capacity this bar can Support Offices [01.17] provide wheelchair access to the stalls also provision for an accessible WC. from this level. it would be the hub of the educational support is approximately 650 persons area. Forming of this opening is subject The support offices are located on the floor throughout the year. Its bar (calculated by maximum safe occupancy to English Heritage approval. first floor behind the Room(s) and will would serve both the cinemas and the rate of 0.36m2/p). Lower Circle [01.06] Screen 01 [02.01] be dedicated to cinema/restaurant/ educational spaces, and function as a The lower circle of the main educational functions. They will have Formed from the upper circle of break-out space. Main Auditorium WC group [00.06 - 00.08] auditorium will be reseated providing their own entrance from Hoe Street the original auditorium, this larger The size of the existing auditorium will approximately 268 seats. - using the existing fire escape stairs auditorium will have a target seating The WC group currently sized to be able be reduced to an approximate seating of the second floor. Disabled access capacity of 730. There is a small stage IDEAS: to serve up to 970 people (Calculated capacity of 740 in the Stalls and through the main stair core and proposed which will enable the space The cafe could be dedicated to according to BS 6465). WC group (at Upper Foyer) [01.03] approximately 268 seats in the Lower Room(s) only. to be used as small studio theatre/ Alfred Hitchcock and the contemporary This WC group can provide for Circle, totalling 1008 seats. rehearsal space or auditorium for interiors could have a 30’s feel (elegant, approximately 160 people. Part of the The maximum population of the Main Ground Floor (Part 2) lectures and seminars (educational black and white with streamlined forms). lower circle will have to use the WC WC group [01.14-01.16] Auditorium is determined by the space function). At the expense of seating The back wall of the cafe could be Cinema bar/cafe/restaurant [00.21] facilities at the Ground level. available for sanitary facilities. The The WC group on the first floor is capacity, the size of the stage can be used as a mini-projection screen The cinema restaurant and bar will be maximum population which the sanitary dedicated to the ground floor and first increased. making this space suitable for small located on the ground floor by the street facilities can support is 1000 people. First floor (Part 2) floor restaurants and can serve up to scale special events. front. The finished floor level is proposed This is detailed below. 260 people dining/drinking (this is the to be at pavement level providing direct The Rooms [01.11-01.12] Screen 02 [02.02] The 1930’s interior will be restored combined capacity of the ground floor disabled access from the street. Staff Room [02.09] with necessary updates to the interior Running alongside the existing front cafe and the two rooms). One disabled Formed from the upper circle of It will have a bar where cinema tickets as required. All alterations will require facade the two rooms could be used toilet is provided. the original auditorium, this smaller A staff room is proposed to support can be purchased. English Heritage approval. for a variety of functions. They can be auditorium will have a target seating the educational spaces with shower / The food for the restaurant will be The existing Christie organ will be run separately or be opened together capacity of 80. changing and locker facilities. prepared in the first floor kitchen which Kitchen [01.13] restored. and rented out for special functions A very small stage is proposed which will be linked by a dumb waiter. such as weddings and corporate The kitchen is located on the first floor will enable the space to be used as WC group [02.06-02.08] The capacity of the restaurant will be events. They could also serve the and will serve both the ground floor auditorium for lectures and seminars Stalls [00.12] between 60-100 people depending on audience of the cinemas. restaurant/bar and the first floor bar/ (educational function). At the expense The WC group on the second floor The Stalls will have a seating capacity the seating arrangement. The Bar area The Rooms are directly accessible restaurant. The kitchen is linked to the of seating capacity, the size of the is dedicated to the cinemas and the of about 740. The seating is currently can serve up to 120 people. from the street but also through the ground floor support functions by an stage can be increased, making this educational spaces. It is currently seized proposed to be fixed but options for new main stair core. (Disabled access internal staircase. space, too, suitable as a studio theatre/ to serve the largest cinema screen of is through the main stair core only.) 130 people plus 100 people in the making it (or part of it) removable are Staff and Support Spaces [00.23] rehearsal space. One of these Rooms [01.11] is educational space (it is assumed that the being investigated. Second floor (Part 2) The support areas for the first and proposed to be a restaurant serving cinema screenings will be staggered: ground floor restaurants will be up to 100 diners. The second floor will accommodate Screen 03 [02.03] The WC facilities would not be able to Thrust Stage [00.13] located on the ground floor behind the Both of these Rooms can 3 cinema screens and educational Screen 03 is located in the street front serve the population of all three screens We are proposing to expand the restaurant. This area will be accessed accommodate bars which in addition spaces. part of the building. This auditorium will at the same time.) There is provision for a stage forward which will bring the through the service entrance and will to the ground floor restaurant/cafe have a target seating capacity of 70. unisex accessible WC. performance closer to the audience. consist of storage and staff welfare could serve the audience of the There is a small stage proposed which facilities. The support area will be linked If the original organ pit still exists, this cinema or could function as a pub. will enable the space to be used as Third floor to the first floor kitchen by an internal will have to be constructed without small studio theatre/rehearsal space or The Third floor will accommodate staircase which will serve as an escape compromising it. auditorium for lectures and seminars any required projection rooms for the route from the kitchen. (educational function). cinemas and plant rooms. The existing projection room will be refurbished. New Stair Core [00.22] This level will be developed further A new stair core is proposed to be at the next stage. located adjacent to the original main building.

26 27 “East London would benefit from “The EMD Cinema was built to promote restoring the EMD Cinema back to it’s happiness, culture and entertainment 1930’s state of glory. Arts and culture for the benefit of the whole community. are for everyone” I fully support the campaign to save the cinema and share their wish to see it Professor Green reopened as a flagship arts venue for Musician east London”. Alain de Botton “I spent many happy hours there as Writer and philosopher a child and find it extraordinary that its preservation as a cinema for local people is not a priority in the borough “We will realise that we have lost of Waltham Forest. With the recent something wonderful and magical if this demise of the dog track and now this cinema goes and it will only slip away news, it seems the protection of the if we don’t raise our voices to stop that area’s historic and cultural landmarks is happening. I am an Epping boy and in the wrong hands.” Walthamstow was my stomping ground. This is a great place and a great place Alan Davies to watch films. These grand cinemas Actor and comedian are becoming rarer. They were the cathedrals of their age and still have a role to play”. “The Walthamstow cinema has a rare touch of glamour and it would be an Griff Rhys Jones absolute tragedy if the film lovers of Comedian and broadcaster east London were to be permanently deprived of this beautiful jewel of a cinema.” “I offer 100% support against the Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association vandalism that is being planned.” Meera Syal Actress and writer Tony Benn Politician and historian ‘Soho Theatre is all about “It’s heartbreaking to hear such a the audience - and knowing beautiful, important historical building “At this exciting time in our history when what makes a great night out. and centre of entertainment is being east London is about to be revitalised, We can’t wait to bring lost to the local community. I fully it would be crazy to turn our backs that to Walthamstow.’ support the campaign to keep it open on such a magnificent venue. If not Shappi Khorsandi and provide film, music and the arts for for our sakes, then for the sake of Comedian and generations to come.” the next generation of film and music Soho Theatre board member lovers, let’s ensure it is given the Sir Mick Jagger opportunity to reclaim its place as Musician the hub of Walthamstow’s high-class entertainment.” Tony Robinson Actor and presenter

28 29 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because WHAT DO LOCAL it is and was once a very beautiful cinema and Walthamstow is lacking in this. Not only will it bring in PEOPLE WANT? business but culturally we need it.” Chris Gibson, manager, The Deli, 69 Orford Road E17 9NJ

The former Granada cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema occupies a central location Trust because we can see lots of Trust because I believe it would Trust because as a resident and Trust because a cinema is much in Walthamstow, close to the people coming to Walthamstow area revamp the area and attract people business owner in Waltham Forest, needed in this area. Please note intersection of the two busiest to the cinema so we will get some to Walthamstow. Consequently this a cinema could only benefit the that the scaffolding has been taken shopping streets in the area. business. Moreover they can play will help local businesses with extra community and the refurbishment of down – wire above at the moment Earlier this year, over 140 some Asian movies for Asian people revenue flow. There is no cinema the old Granada would be ideal.” has been left in a terrible state of local business owners and in Walthamstow. It would be good to anywhere near to Walthamstow – Bob King, owner, Forest Photographic, repair and is dangerous – debris managers gave statements be open very soon.” there is a definite NEED.” 128-128a Hoe Street E17 4QR falling through broken wire.” in support of re-opening the Frianki Paul, manager, Priya Maamalas “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Panikos Constantinou, owner, Ye Olde Rose and Mrs L Brooks, manager, Century 21 estate cinema, demonstrating just how restaurant, 256 Hoe Street E17 3AX Crown Theatre Pub, 53-55 Hoe Street E17 4SA agents, 87 Hoe Street E17 4SA 16/4/12. much local support exists. In Trust because a revamped EMD addition to these testimonials cinema would help with the current “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust lack of the night time economy in “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Save Walthamstow Cinema has because I am convinced that it will Trust because it’s going to attract well over 5000 supporters on Walthamstow, revitalising a neglected bring much-needed trade to the area.” part of the town centre. If done well it more people to the area, which is Facebook and the McGuffin going to help us boost our business.” John Obiri-Yeboah, D P Marks Chemist, could attract people from outside the film society enjoys widespread 220/222 High Street E17 7JH area and would reduce the income Ziane Abdenour, The Barber Shop, 118 Hoe support. Street E17 4QR “I support Waltham Forest lost from local people who currently Cinema Trust because I think “The Waltham Forest Business Board “I support Waltham Forest Cinema have no local facilities where they that the cinema is exactly what represents 500 businesses throughout Trust because in an area that does can spend their time (or money). It “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Walthamstow needs. It would be a the borough of Waltham Forest bringing not have many public amenities a would give a lift to the other bars and Trust because it would help fantastic boost for local businesses them together in a strategic forum to cinema in the High Street would be a restaurants already in the area and regenerate the local area and also and would provide a cultural “I support Waltham Forest Cinema work in partnership with the Council great boost to trade in this struggling would also attract more shoppers to generate new business in local landmark for surrounding areas.” Trust because I am a resident of to secure the economic future of the market place!” Walthamstow. The restored cinema shops, besides the entertainment!” Walthamstow and would like to have would help the shops trading in the Dan O’Connor, manager, Eat 17 restaurant, borough and the creation of jobs for the D Forino, manager, Walthamstow Post Office, Victor Kantor, Henry Taylor Outfitters 28 Orford Road E17 9NJ an entertaining area close to my local community. Central Library site, High Street E17 7JN Mall and on the High Street, making schoolwear, 119/121 Hoe Street E17 4RX house. It’s a good place to enjoy with the town centre more attractive to “I support Waltham Forest Cinema your family.” We believe that a revamped cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema local businesses and drawing in “I support Waltham Forest Cinema would give Hoe Street a new lease of better quality national retailers.” Trust because it would be beneficial Fatima Khalil, manager, Islamic Relief charity Trust because there are not enough Trust because it will bring more shop, 156 Hoe Street E17 4QH life and act as a catalyst for regeneration. for the area. People around local cinemas and it would also Alasdair Currie, General Manager, business to the area and also bring Walthamstow need a close-to-home It would give a huge boost to the night- help other small local businesses The Mall Walthamstow shopping centre, the borough out of the shadow of 45 Selborne Road E17 7JR cinema where they can spend quality “I support Waltham Forest Cinema time economy supporting many of the due to encouraging more people being deprived of any form of leisure businesses in the local area. time with family and friends!” Trust because of its desire to restore into the area.” and recreation and entertainment.” and re-open the EMD cinema that “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Roger Carter & Flossie Parsons, owners, The The Board fully supports the Waltham Edward Housden, owner, Ashlins Natural Health, Bachis, KyBer Café, 150 Hoe Street E17 4QR Nags Head public house, 9 Orford Road E17 9LP once used to attract all film lovers 181 Hoe Street E17 3AP Trust because the cinema is and Forest Cinema Trust.” should be part of the community and “I support Waltham Forest Cinema from within and outside the locality. Moreover, the cinema would be a Michael Pelledri, will bring much to the area again! In “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it would increase Chair, Waltham Forest Business Board “I support Waltham Forest Cinema terms of trade and it will make the Trust because it is one of the well- business to my restaurant and radically great place for our youth club to visit.” Trust because it will generate more area more attractive.” known cinema halls in London. It support development in the area.” Musa Ballikaya, The Asian Centre Waltham “I support Waltham Forest Cinema people in the area, which would has a history behind it. Keeping the Forest, 18a Orford Road E17 9LN potentially increase footfall in our Adrian Sinclair, Spencers Property Services, Kenan, Istanbul Restaurant, Trust because it would bring 169 Hoe Street E17 3AL cinema hall will help the community 154 Hoe Street E17 4QH thousands of people into our branch, thus improving our profits.” be economically and culturally more area, boosting business. It would Gavin Reeves, manager, Co-op Bank, effective. It is also good for our 151-155 Hoe Street E17 3AN “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema also make Hoe Street and central Trust because books and films mix business, as many of the people Trust because it would decrease crime Walthamstow a nicer and safer place brilliantly and we look forward to the will come to our restaurant and eat. in the area and improve our business.” to be for our customers and our staff. increased number of people coming Therefore it is very effective for the We would use the cinema and our Waltham Forest Council and the Vardan Gevorgyan, Arbat Off Licence, to the area. It’s the heart of the 162 Hoe Street E17 4QH business would benefit from it.” community and good for business.” people living in Waltham Forest.” Aydin Aktas, manager, Syed Asad Haque, Dhaka Tandoori, Fiona Kavanagh, manager, Waterstones Akdeniz Gida Pizari supermarket, 103 Hoe Street E17 4SA booksellers, The Mall, 45 Selborne Walk E17 7JR 147-149 Hoe Street E17 3AL

30 31 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because this cinema hosted top bands in the 60s such as the Rolling Stones, Beatles and The Kinks. This is our past and should be saved.” Micky Norkett, owner, East London Sausage Co Butchers, 57 Orford Road E17 9NJ

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema into the systems of local tradesmen/ “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because we want the cinema Trust because having lived here builders etc.” Trust because the public in this Trust because we need a cinema in back to Walthamstow!” all my life, and having grown a Richard Maher, manager, Central Estate Agents, area deserve to have a local cinema Walthamstow. The building could be 177-179 Hoe Street E17 3AP Serena Mazzotta, Le Delice café restaurant, business in the area, I have so many as elsewhere in London. It helps used as a cafe, bar, with food etc and 114 Hoe Street E17 4QR fond memories when growing up to hopefully stop the progress of to have art shows etc.” and having many nights out at this terrifying no-go zone area in High “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Mark Finamore, owner, Finamore retro & beautiful art deco cinema. I’d like Trust because since a child I have Street in Walthamstow. It also may furniture restoration, 63 Orford Road E17 9HJ nothing better than re-live those help to bring some blood to the so many memories of this iconic “I support Waltham Forest Cinema times, and know it would bring so building dating back to the time when business in the area.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema much life and business back to the Trust because having the building The Beatles were on stage. Once this A. Jilow, owner, Eastman Army Camp surplus, Trust because our community needs back would benefit the area and have borough, which take it from me is art-deco building is destroyed its all work & security wear, 52 High Street E17 7LD and deserves its own cinema, and sorely needed.” a cinema back in Walthamstow, plus over and living in this area all my life a cinema will help draw business to it would bring back great memories Janet M. Davidson, Scrolls and I know only too well that we badly “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Walthamstow. The cinema building for me as it was my local cinema as a Shells cake shop, 102A Wood Street Indoor need new business and new life in Trust because we need a cinema. is rightly listed for its famous Market, Wood Street E17 3HX child. Also having the attraction here the area, this is a last ditch chance.” There is no cinema in Walthamstow interior. Not only for its architectural would bring in more visitors which “I support Waltham Forest Cinema and therefore it’s a good thing. More importance but The Beatles played Trust because I have run Health Works “I support Waltham Forest Cinema John Rowe, Caretaker, Wood Street Indoor would improve revenue to local Market, Wood Street E17 3HX people will come to the area and that there, as did other heritage musicians, businesses and the community.” for ten years nearly. We opened as Trust because to use the cinema will help my business. I live on the and its history should be preserved the cinema closed. Over the years it as a church would bring nothing Martin Cleminson, owner, Martins Toys & games High Street too and will definitely go for posterity.” memorabilia, Unit 2, Wood Street Indoor Market, has become more and more derelict to the community whatsoever, just 98 Wood Street E17 3HX to the cinema.” Penny Fielding, owner, Penny Fielding Beautiful looking, which is offputting for my congestion and parking problems. You Interiors gallery, 34 Orford Road E17 9NJ Recep Hizal, manager, Cafe Riccos, 64 High clientele. I also need space to hire just need to look at Shernhall Street, Street E17 7DB for classes in general – we run many a narrow street with a high volume of “I support Waltham Forest Cinema yoga, pilates, zumba, bellydancing, traffic brought to a standstill when the “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because personally, for my antenatal etc classes and we simply church is open, or the Bell corner of “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it will improve the business, it would help me gain new don’t have enough space. The cinema Hoe Street when the place of worship Trust because we would really like overall energy and feel of the High business and keep money in the meeting rooms would be ideal for us. is open between Tower Hamlets Road a cinema in Walthamstow, because Street, will encourage new business Walthamstow area. I am a journalist for And Walthamstow deserves a vibrant and Byron Road… we live here and it would bring more to open due to new footfall and national newspapers and magazines, “I support Waltham Forest Cinema customers to the area.” encourage surrounding communities and co-run a copywriting business for arts centre.” Trust because with ever increasing “Just take a look at South Woodford, Mrs G. Dik, owner, Snowdrop Beauty & to come together.” corporate clients. A re-opened EMD Jo Redmond, owner, Health Works difficulty small businesses find in that cinema has been there for as Hairdressing, 77 High Street E17 7DB cinema would hugely boost local complementary health centre, this low economic time, a local well Andrew Goad, manager, Churchill Estate agents, 111a Hoe Street E17 4RX long as I can remember as a child, the 141 Hoe Street E17 3AL regeneration and have a domino effect bars, restaurants, high end shops etc known cinema would encourage on the whole local area. I currently people from all walks of life, from “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema were not. They emerged to service the Trust because I think a cinema would “I support Waltham Forest Cinema find it impossible to meet with clients patrons of the cinema… Just think of surrounding areas, to come to in Walthamstow because the short Trust because it’s good for local Walthamstow and help small improve Walthamstow. I also live in Trust because we would like to have businesses and local people to have the amount of new business it would the area. I would definitely go to the more night entertainment life in walk from tube station to my home bring to the area and most important business survive and encourage office is so offputting to them. This a cinema for all to enjoy. It will help growth. Let’s do something good for cinema.” Walthamstow.” towards the local economy and help of all how much revenue to the results in me either losing business or struggling local authority… Walthamstow.” Mr G. Dik, owner, Deja Vu Cafe, 75A High Street Kotsel Sen, Café Rendezvous, 61 High Street meeting clients elsewhere – and if I regenerate the area.” E17 7DB E17 7AD Mr A. Shaikh, owner, Vinn Dry Cleaners, do the latter then our money is spent Brian Martindale, manager, The Goose “Would a church keep children off of 304 Hoe Street E17 9QD away from the borough and I lose public house, 264 Hoe Street E17 3AX the streets? No, but would a cinema? “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema valuable working time. Converting the Definitely! There is a prime opportunity “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because I supply soundtracks cinema into a church would not have “I support Waltham Forest Cinema to give a huge boost to the area with a Trust because I think it will benefit for local film-makers. These people Trust because this cinema hosted top the area because we don’t have a the same regenerative effect on the Trust because it will benefit the cinema, not to mention a huge rise in bands in the 60s such as the Rolling tend to be 20-something ‘students’ local area and would do nothing to local community and will give property prices, just look at the prices cinema here. It needs a bit more than and therefore have a potential future Stones, Beatles and The Kinks. This a cinema, but a cinema is a good boost the local economy.” local residents chance to entertain in South Woodford! This again means is our past and should be saved.” and would therefore bring long-term start.” Caramel Quin, co-owner, Magic Number themselves and families.” more people spending money on the revenue to the local area.” Creative, 37 Cleveland Park Avenue E17 7BP Micky Norkett, owner, East London Sausage Co Carole Barron, manager, Robert Barron Tocin Arfam, Spicy Lounge, upkeep and redevelopment of their Butchers, 57 Orford Road E17 9NJ Anthony J. Rega, owner, Tony Tunes 78rpm hairdresser salon, 81 High Street E17 7DB 218 Hoe Street E17 3AY homes, this again puts more money record specialist, Unit 3, Wood Street Indoor Market, Wood Street E17 3HX

32 33 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because we think it’s good for youngsters, and it will be good for Walthamstow.” Mr Christou, owner, Bonners Fish Bar, 144 Northcote Road E17 7EB

“I support Waltham Forest “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Cinema Trust because it would Trust because I think we need a Trust because we need more things Trust because cinema is needed and Trust because the resources are Trust because I think there is no reinvigorate the evening economy in cinema in Walthamstow, because for people to do locally and I have necessary as a social activity.” going out of the borough. There is cinema in the area. More people will

Walthamstow in a multitude of ways. kids love watching films and I have to good memories growing up and Hassan, Azrou Cafe, 88 High Street E17 7LD absolutely no entertainment at all come to the area and keep the local This can only be a good thing. In my take my kids in the car to take them going to that cinema.” in the evening. We need to make economy going.” opinion there exists an overwhelming and some times take time off work.” Walthamstow an interesting place, Samantha Davis, The Village Bakery “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Spiros Ragavelas, owner, Village Kitchen demand for a cinema in the area. and coffee shop, 71 Orford Road E17 9NJ need to attract more people from restaurant, 41 Orford Road E17 9NJ Z Ahmed, Clean Stitch dry cleaners, 400 Forest Trust because it will help regenerate The social, cultural and financial Road E17 5JF other boroughs here as we used to “I support Waltham Forest Cinema the area, bringing people to rewards would be shared by all of the Trust because it would be good for have the longest market in Europe, community. See the bigger picture!” Walthamstow and that’s good for and need to gain that interest back!” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema business.” business.” Mr Francis Long, owner, Lot One Ten Antiques, Trust because it is an important Javid Akhar, Clothing Care Dry Cleaner, 232 High A.F. Shan, Shanze beauty salon, 86A High 78/78a Hoe Street E17 4PG Street E17 7JH Laszlo Nagy, Golden Cake shop, 39-41 High Street E17 7LD need in the borough personally for Street E17 7AD my business. Parents are able to “I support Waltham Forest Cinema go to a cinema while children are in “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it would be good for class. Children themselves see other Trust because it will be good for “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because we would really like business. No cinema in the area. filmmaking at first hand and then are young people in the area. They need Trust because I used this cinema more things for the community to do.” when I was a kid and it was always a Good for children. A meeting place.” able to use this in drama class.” some entertainment.” Mo Gallaccio, Trustee, The Mill Community great place to go.” Centre, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Mustafa Tosunlar, Five Star Fish Bar, 442 Forest Shenagh Govan, owner, Drama! children’s drama Brendalyn Browne, Hair 2 Day Unisex Salon, 99 Road E17 4PY school/classes, 1a Jewel Road E17 4QU High Street E17 7DB Wayne Prestedge, Lui Menswear, 84 High Street Trust because I believe it would E17 7LD benefit the area from any business “I support Waltham Forest Cinema point of view and also it would “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it’s for the local benefit locals and local children.” Trust because Waltham Forest is the Trust because if more people visit the “I support Waltham Forest Cinema community. We do not have any Trust because we need a cinema in Jackie Jones, manager, The Bell public house, only borough in London that does not cinema it is more likely that people cinemas for a 5 mile radius. It will 617 Forest Road E17 4NE have a cinema and the magnificent will be wandering around and they Walthamstow and to make it more give children a place to go out and EMD would be a cinema we could be will be hungry so they might pop attractive for people to come to the families too. Local businesses will proud of and attract evening trade to round for a dessert.” area.” benefit from people going out locally.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Mr. S. Patel, Gardners News & Post Office, 48 Trust because I believe that more and the area, which would benefit us as Ahmed Dedat, Jus-Desserts ice cream parlour, Faruque Choudhury, Bengal Curry House High Street E17 7LD more people will like the films. As well as it would make Walthamstow 249 Hoe Street E17 9PT restaurant, 24 St James Street E17 7PF a more attractive area for people to they are going to the cinema it will move to. Our customers are mainly “I support Waltham Forest Cinema bring us more business and benefit.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because I think it will be good “I support Waltham Forest Cinema home owners and culture lovers. We Trust because we would like to have Trust because the original art deco Yulin Yu, Lucky Star Chinese Takeaway, 64 Hoe recently enquired about the empty for everyone and good for my cab Street E17 4PG more people in our coffee shop, we firm as it will bring more customers.” building should be for public use as a corner shop unit within the complex would like to take our children to the cinema, which is desperately needed and were told by the neighbouring cinema to keep more people in the Sally Smith, High Street Cars, 12 Palmerston for the locals!” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema shop that others had enquired and Road E17 6PD Trust because I love films. I could local area.” Ian Leggatt, manager, Orford Saloon Tapas Bar, that the church had no interest in 32 Orford Road E17 9NJ take my kids to the cinema. Local Rachid Mayache, Café Meds, 267 Hoe Street letting it out. It has now been empty E17 9PT “I support Waltham Forest Cinema businesses could profit. The council for many years, which proves that the Trust because I think it will bring more could benefit from it.” current owners have no interest in people into the Waltham Forest area “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because empty buildings are Trust because there is no cinema Joseph Paulos, Orange Newsagents, 84 Hoe boosting local business.” and I don’t have to go out for my own Street E17 4QS Trust because I believe having a a blight – they should be occupied in close proximity and this would Elaine McCloshey and Kirsten Schmidt, owners entertainment.” E17 Art House picture framers and print gallery, cinema would bring about more by proper companies. If the cinema enhance the area and its appeal to Saj, Ribbons Fabrics, 97 High Street E17 7DB “I support Waltham Forest Cinema 6-10 Church Hill E17 3RY business to the local area, which was re-opened there would be outsiders.” would benefit my business.” somewhere for the youngsters to Trust because I think when it’s open, Archie Campbell, Queens Arms public house, 42 lots of local people will come to see “I support Waltham Forest Cinema go, and it would keep money in the Orford Road E17 9NJ “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Asif Mahmood, owner, Flamin Steak Grill the movies. I like Bollywood and restaurant, 328 Hoe Street E17 9PX Trust because we think it’s good for borough. The old Arcade site could Trust because it would be good for Hollywood movies.” culture and entertainment.” youngsters, and it will be good for be opened as a car park generating Walthamstow.” revenue for the town.” Khurvam Butt, Afro Cosmetics, 115A High Street M. Hussain, Sai Fabric & mobile shop, 70 High E17 7DB Street E17 7LD Mr Christou, owner, Bonners Fish Bar, 144 Stephen Phillips, Shack Menswear, 108 High Northcote Road E17 7EB Street E17 7JY

34 35 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it’s good entertainment, lots more people can come to Walthamstow and in the village.” D. Gibson, manager, Trattoria La Ruga restaurant, 59 Orford Road E17 9NJ

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support the campaign “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because as a woman who wholeheartedly and wish to add my Trust because the cinema should Trust because we need an arts centre Trust because we need a cinema and has chosen to set up and run my voice to a growing number of angry be kept open and we should have a and cinema complex.” it’s our heritage.” business, to raise a family here and frustrated business owners and cinema.” Frances Basham, Tilt vintage fashion shop, Michael Lane, Record Shop, Unit 98 Wood Wood Street Indoor Market, Wood Street E17 Street Indoor Market, Wood Street E17 3HX and play an active part in a vibrant residents.” Mrs Cooper & Mr Nicholls, L Manze pie & mash 3HX shop, 75 High Street E17 7LD Walthamstow community, I find it Michelle Goodall, Online communications & almost criminal that 10 years after social media consultant/trainer, 23 Chelmsford Rd E17 8NN “I support Waltham Forest Cinema making Walthamstow my home “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because …my 18-year-old and my place of business that we Trust because if I had a cinema Trust because I think it would needs to go to the cinema. …with a still don’t have a cinema and that “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema improve the area and provide we can spend time there, for Trust because it would make the High great community-driven space the people have to travel outside of the Trust because we would welcome a entertainment and very good for a much-needed leisure facility, cinema would make Walthamstow borough to see films. Screen 17 do local cinema and a live entertainment Street area busier and that should plus bring people from outside of meeting with friends, and the benefit businesses here like ours.” great again. …a cinema would create an admirable job but it’s just not venue.” business would be very good for Walthamstow which is great!” jobs for local people. …so I can go to enough for a growing community and Huseyin, Pop In Cafe, 167 High Street E17 7BX Mirunda Dumirejeu, La Dumitrescu Romanian people in the area.” Deborah Daniel, Craft Guerrilla craft workshops the cinema with my family. …people their choice of films does not always Deli, 141 Wood Street E17 3LX and designer maker, Unit 37 Wood Street Indoor will stay living in Waltham Forest.” reflect the cultural diversity of the Ahmat Akkaya, Fat Chef Cafe, 101 High Street Market, Wood Street E17 3HX E17 7DB “I support Waltham Forest Cinema borough. Denise Rawls, Strange Fruit greeting cards and “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because the cinema is part of stationery, 21 Stephenson Road E17 7LE Trust because I would like a local Waltham Forest’s history and one “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “The situation with the EMD cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because the cinema would is frankly depressing. It reflects cinema and live entertainment space.” Trust because we really need a of the very few landmarks in the “I support Waltham Forest Cinema borough. It would also be a good enhance local amenities in the poorly on all involved in the long and Pepe Christou, Brothers Fish Bar, 122 Wood cinema and to retain the character of borough. This would make the Trust because it would encourage Street E17 3HX solution as we have no local cinemas. sorry saga including the council, the the area.” borough a more attractive place to live, people to stay in the area and church who purchased the building At present it has been unused for patronise the local businesses.” J. McAndrew FBDO, New Era Optical opticians, some time.” work and shop. I would benefit as a who appear to be using their position “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust 114 High Street E17 7JY business from this. I am also a local Jane Reed, Jady Jane’s Vintage Bandwagon to leverage funds, and any other because we welcome a local cinema Casey Parram, Tower Boots footwear, 2 Palace vintage clothing, Wood Street Indoor Market, Parade, High Street E17 7BU resident and would love to be able to Wood Street E17 3HX ‘blocking’ stakeholders who clearly do and entertainment centre for EMD.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema walk to the cinema from my home.” not understand the level of support M Nareen, MN Shoes, 129 Wood Street E17 3LX Trust because it would be better to and passion that many residents “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Andy Dickson, The Chair Man chair and furniture “I support Waltham Forest Cinema be able to have a local cinema than revampers, Unit 42 Wood Street Indoor Market, and business owners have for an having to leave the borough. It will Trust because as a community arts Wood Street E17 3HX Trust because there is no cinema independent cinema. The battle “I support Waltham Forest Cinema organisation, we strive to ensure in the Walthamstow area. We Trust because I would prefer to have bring more people to the area near for the cinema must be costing us to the market and therefore to our that communities can access “I support Waltham Forest Cinema have to go far away to watch films. taxpayers a sizeable amount in legal a ‘local’ not a big chain cinema highest quality arts experiences and Children in the Walthamstow area where we could watch all the films shops.” Trust because Walthamstow needs a fees for the council alone. opportunities, and learn about local cinema, somewhere for people to go are missing to watch good films. It that you don’t get to see usually. I Flora Jebelean, Hush Ladies clothes shop, 109 heritage. Walthamstow Cinema is a is very important to have a cinema High Street E17 7DB and enjoy the arts etc.” “Given the diversity of this community, also think it would increase public crucial part of our borough’s history in Walthamstow for leisure and we all lose out from the lack of an and local attention to this area, and arts landscape. It is vital that it J Gibbs, Nobby Lawtons Olde Footy Shop education. If there is a cinema in entertainment hub that doesn’t rely especially Walthamstow and bring “I support Waltham Forest Cinema memorabilia shop, Unit 98 Wood Street Indoor retains its purpose and is restored to Market, Wood Street E17 3HX Walthamstow we get more business on the sale of alcohol, gambling, more visitors and customers to local Trust because this is the only cinema become a centre for arts and culture in this area.” small children only or 18+ only businesses.” in Walthamstow. Therefore people to be enjoyed by the population of entertainment. Is it right that still like to go out to see films.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema B Rayindran, JR Print digital and litho printers, Filiz Zenew, Market Cafe, 151 High Street E17 our borough, and beyond.” 61 Hoe Street E17 4SA 7BX Trust because there is nothing like Walthamstow is the only London M. Nadeem, Glamour household goods, 157 Liza Vallance, Artistic Director, Studio 3 Arts, High Street E17 5RW this in the area. People want to have borough without a cinema? The Malthouse Studios, 62-76 Abbey Road, Barking IG11 7BT more attractions within the area, so “I can promise you that an independent “I support Waltham Forest Cinema as not to always go to central London cinema would be a sustainable and Trust because it’s good for local kids “I support Waltham Forest Cinema for a wider range of attractions. It can critical addition to Walthamstow’s and our business and more people Trust because it’s good entertainment, “I support Waltham Forest Cinema only be a positive move forwards.” day and night time economy. It would will come to the borough.” lots more people can come to Trust because it is a long distance Walthamstow and in the village.” travelling to the nearest cinema. If it Kirstie Robinson, Just Can’t Help It clothes bring residents closer together by Mr Y. Ali, 4 Seasons shoes & handbags, 69 High maker, Wood Street Indoor Market, Wood Street Street E17 7DB re-opened I would go as it is not too E17 3HX providing a new hub for entertainment D. Gibson, manager, Trattoria La Ruga as well as drawing in new people from restaurant, 59 Orford Road E17 9NJ far away from my house.” outside of the borough. Mr Hamed, Market News newsagent, 227 High Street E17 7BH

36 37 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it is for all of the community.” D Tailor, Forest Chemist pharmacy, 615 Forest Road E17 4PP

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema together the many diverse strands of “Planning guidance recommends that “We support Waltham Forest Cinema where we happily encourage them Trust because I think that this idea is Trust because it would bring more our wonderful community.” the first option for a listed building Trust because a cinema is an integral and our staff to spend money very helpful to my business because people to the area and make the Nigel Straker, Deputy Headteacher, Walthamstow is for it to be used in the purpose for part of a vibrant community. Without not only in the cinema but in it’s going to attract more customers building nicer.” School for Girls secondary community school, which it was designed – in this case one, E17 is impoverished. The surrounding bars and restaurants. Church Hill E17 9RZ to our shop. It’s a very good idea and Pardip Dass, Eggfree Cake Box bakery, 138 Hoe as cinema and live entertainment scope for economic development Like many we are here because of we support it from all our hearts.” Street E17 4QR venue. Conversion to church use is significant and the opportunity to Walthamstow’s excellent transport Javed Jiqbal, Fresh “A” Licious coffee shop, “As a resident of Walthamstow working will remove north east London’s bring this lovely old building and its links; but a restored cinema/ 152B Hoe Street E17 4QR “I support Waltham Forest Cinema as an independent architectural largest and most elaborate cinema environs back to life should not be entertainment facility of this quality Trust because it would be lovely.” historian (as Archangel Heritage), I auditorium – a treasured asset of missed.” would not only greatly benefit us “I support Waltham Forest Cinema have a passion to preserve and national importance – from the I Chapman & S Moore, joint owners, and existing businesses, but would Elena, Tax Academy accountancy, 52 Hoe Street Walthamstow Osteopaths Ltd, 72 St Mary Road Trust because I think it will have a E17 4PG protect our built environment. I am public domain forever; this would also bring new quality businesses to good effect on our business and it both saddened and dismayed by the be lamentable. For example, the E17 9RE the area and also provide a greater is good for the community to have a proposals of the UCKG to convert the UCKG’s proposal includes the range of opportunities.” local cinema, we do not need to go “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Grade II* listed former EMD cinema, holding of four church services every “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it’s a good thing for the John Norman, co-owner, Academy Design far away for entertainment.” Hoe Street, Walthamstow for use as day, preventing the wider community Trust because there is a lack of Partners, Suite 202, Hiltongrove Business area and it’s about time that we had a church. from accessing the majority of the mainstream cultural provision Centre, Hatherley Mews E17 4QP Rashid Ahmed, Rashidsa barber shop, 124 Hoe a cinema, We approve of this and Street E17 4QR building at any time.” in the borough and in particular support it 1000%.” “Within the last hundred years or Walthamstow town centre. The plans “I support Waltham Forest Cinema so, Walthamstow has lost many Karen Averby, Archangel Heritage independent “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Bob, MBA Cars mini cabs, 50-52 Hoe Street E17 architectural historian, Flat 3, 273 Hoe Street would create a night time economy Trust because the borough needs a 4PG significant historic buildings which E17 9PT Trust because I think it will bring more and further help and support local cultural focus, and the EMD cinema formed part of the development and creative industries, bringing jobs and could really bring that. Walthamstow people to the road. At the moment history of Walthamstow, and it is vital the road is empty and it is a problem.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema wealth generation to the area. Local has a thriving creative sector, having Trust because it will bring business that remaining historic buildings be Trust because children and families people would have the opportunity somewhere that people could meet A A Ansuparajan, Arul Food & Wine, 120 Hoe preserved and restored for today’s Street E17 4QR into the area.” in Waltham Forest should be able of a range of local cultural amenities. would really add a huge amount of community to enjoy. Walthamstow to enjoy cinema at a local venue, Local businesses such as restaurants, value to the area.” Alan Costales, Ronald Brown opticians, 212 Hoe has a rich and largely forgotten Street E17 3AY as families in every other London taxi companies and bars will be “I support Waltham Forest Cinema cinematic history, which has played Michael C Place, co-owner/director, Build borough do. The EMD cinema is supported as we have demonstrated creative design studio, Unit 15, 12-15 Hatherley Trust because it’s good for our an important international role. a treasured local landmark which over the last year of trading.” Mews E17 4QP business when cinema will be ready. Restoration and utilisation of this deserves to be used by local people We hope more people will come in building for its original purpose would Nick Bertram and Ian Simpson, owners, for cultural and social enjoyment as Screen17 cinema operator, Orford House, 73 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust our shop and we will be more busy. be a continuation of this history, and soon as possible.” Orford Road, E17 9QR because as a non-Waltham Forest That’s why we support this Trust.” will serve as a living testament to this resident, but as someone who works illustrious past. Rhiannon Finamore, Community Governor, Ahsan Ul Zafar, Tasty Chicken N Pizza fast food, Henry Maynard Junior School, Addison Road “I support Waltham Forest Cinema in the area, there is little incentive for 122 Hoe Street E17 4QR E17 9LT “It is widely acknowledged that the Trust because we are a design me to stay in the area beyond working borough would greatly benefit from agency based in Hatherley Mews, hours; I believe the regeneration and “I support Waltham Forest Cinema having a cinema, and would be an “I support Waltham Forest Cinema right next to the cinema. We have benefit to the local community the Trust because it can bring local “I support Waltham Forest Cinema economic and social asset to the Trust because it would potentially clients in the UK and Europe. The cinema’s renovation and restoration resources and community together Trust because being able to enjoy local area. Indeed, the building is still benefit the students at our school. current lack of regeneration in would bring can change that! Not only and give access to the Arts cinema in their local area should be viable as a cinema, as highlighted in The Trust would allow our students central Walthamstow, an area which is the building of great historical and and support for the community. an entitlement for all young people. As the council-commissioned Locum to access film and other performing our visitors arriving at Walthamstow cultural significance, it has the potential Entertainment is a needed part of all Deputy Headteacher at Walthamstow report, while several offers to buy and arts enrichment activities that are Central have to traverse to reach our to provide Walthamstow with a thriving communities and this is a resource School for Girls, I am regularly asked run it as one have been made since its currently unavailable to them.” offices, makes us loath to invite and and bustling centre, a hub and a heart.” that the area is missing.” by our students why we do not have entertain clients here. Regrettably closure by the UCKG. The Waltham Michael Burstow, Head of Performing Arts, Sophie James, Build creative design studio, Unit Walthamstow School for Girls secondary 15, 12-15 Hatherley Mews E17 4QP Neville King, Boomstick Media publisher, 22 a local cinema in Walthamstow, we are forced to use Islington and Forest Cinema Trust has commercially community school, Church Hill E17 9RZ Erskine Road E17 6RY something which they feel would viable plans and funding sources central London instead. A cinema be a huge benefit to everyone in the in place to buy, restore and operate “I support Waltham Forest Cinema with the facilities proposed by the “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust community. They point out that there the building without any expense Trust because it will encourage more Trust would be the much needed because it is for all of the community.” are very few social opportunities for to the council. This is an excellent people in the vicinity. Which will help catalyst that changes the way we them and that to have a cinema would opportunity to make the building businesses in Waltham Forest.” feel about and use the area, making D Tailor, Forest Chemist pharmacy, 615 Forest serve as a focal point for bringing us confident to invite clients and Road E17 4PP accessible to the local community. Fiza, Divine hairdressers, 341 Hoe Street E17 9BD

38 39 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because it is a great opportunity to revive Walthamstow night life. We need a local cinema for our children and public in general.” Frank Escuderu, Grove Cafe café and bar, 21 Hatherley Mews E17 4QP

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because we need a cinema. because I’d increase my daily sales and Trust because they need to show Trust because we need to create Trust because it would give me more This is the first place I saw a film I have more customers because of the that local businesses really want a reasons for people to visit business as cinema is good for when I was six years old, and I used cinema. I have a very good business. I central place that encourages local Walthamstow – a cinema would business.”

to go there regularly in my early years. keep the shop because of cinema. If people to stay in the town and shop/ support this.” Ruban, Abina Supermarket off licence, 132 Hoe Street E17 4QR It’s a shame to see it rotting away there is no cinema then no point to keep eat/drink locally. And also a cinema Barry Grier, XL Hair Design, 76 St Mary Road when there are kids with nothing to shop open.” would attract many people from other E17 9RE do on the streets. The area needs a surrounding areas as a destination for Mr Rhas Aurlappa, Food & Wine off licence, 168 “I support Waltham Forest Cinema cinema!” Hoe Street E17 4QH entertainment. Not just a cinema but “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because a cinema is needed in “I support Waltham Forest Cinema a meeting place for groups to use as Trust because the children and young Martin Lewis, owner, Salvage Electrical, 82 Hoe Trust because The Victoria is one the area.” Street E17 4PG well.” of the remaining businesses that people of Walthamstow desperately “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust Ernest Obene, Kos Mini Market Afro-Caribbean need a local cinema to entertain, Carolyn Abbott, E17 Designers community craft are still trading within the old EMD food & sundries, 5 Central Parade E17 4RT because the town centre is in urgent group, 105 Farnan Avenue E17 4NH inspire and challenge them. They are “I support Waltham Forest Cinema cinema. Unfortunately, we have spent Trust because it will give children a need of regeneration. At present the the last nine years doing so in what missing out on an important cultural only focus is the shopping centre and “I support Waltham Forest Cinema and social activity enjoyed by young place to go with their families who “I support Waltham Forest Cinema appears to be a derelict building, with Trust because we support to bring may have been put off by having to market, which do not function outside Trust because I want cinema here. It no regard from the UCKG. people in every other London borough.” business hours. This is compounded back the cinema as soon as possible travel, because it will give children a will give me more benefit and more for our local community and to Rhiannon Finamore, Community Liaison sense of pride in their borough, and by the council’s demolition of the customers. The church will bring a “The majority of people are aware that Co-ordinator, Walthamstow School for Girls prominent Arcade buildings without the pub trade has suffered of late and double up and improve our business. secondary community school, Church Hill E17 9RZ because it would provide a venue parking problem and no customers. We fully support any more campaigns for local children’s arts, drama and securing development, followed by their The community and the business most of the pubs in the area have abject failure to secure any new use been refurbished in an attempt to – bring back the cinema.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema dance groups to perform.” need the cinema. It will be better for for this site despite evident demand. the children and more safe for the increase their trade. We have been AT, manager, VM Supermarket, 4 Central Parade Trust because Walthamstow is in Mr A Morris, learning mentor, Greenleaf Primary Instead we have an attractive but rather unable to do this as the business has E17 4RT desperate need of quality entertainment School, Greenleaf Road E17 6QW area. At the moment children have pointless void which generates no nowhere to go.” been shrouded in uncertainty. and cultural facilities. As a creative activity, employment, rates or Council “I support Waltham Forest Cinema business with international clients “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Ming Feng Li, Peking Chef Chinese restaurant, “I support the Waltham Forest Cinema Tax income. 178 Hoe Street E17 4QH Trust because it will improve the (who do visit us!) it matters to us how Trust because my restaurant is near Trust as I feel that the area needs new community and my business.” the area is perceived; currently there the cinema. If there is a cinema it “My view is that rather than restriction to a business to create jobs and bring Sam Soman, Royal Salon hairdresser, 3A are few places in the area that we can means more people will be walking cinema, the building should have broader revenue into the area. Walthamstow Central Parade E17 4RT use for meetings, social or business. around and it will affect my business. I use as an arts centre which will give a has fantastic transport links, the Having the cinema next door restored will get more customers. For example, focus to the town centre and help the argument for the need for parking is to its former glory and offering first- in Wood Green when they opened area compete with surrounding centres.” irrelevant. “I support Waltham Forest Cinema class facilities would be an amazing the main cinema all businesses got Trust because it will improve the area Benjamin Tobin, Chairman, Strettons chartered “This building could be the grand – we don’t like the unused building boost, to us as a business and for more busy and also they opened more surveyors, 189-203 Hoe Street E17 3SZ the area in general. And once a good new businesses. Already my business focal point of central Walthamstow, and it will attract more customers for thing happens with such a visible and is not good, if it continues without a the hub of the community. It would us.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema be a great opportunity, for us as valuable improvement to the area, other cinema then maybe I will close.” Trust because I have been running Georgeta Badea, 1 December Ltd grocery shop, quality businesses and so regeneration “I support Waltham Forest Cinema a business, to work alongside 180 Hoe Street E17 4QH Kenan Duman, Istanbul Restaurant, 154 Hoe my business in Walthamstow for over Trust because it would certainly bring the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust typically follows. I would really like to Street E17 4QH ten years and I have witnessed how see people’s perceptions of the area a lot more people in the area which to create a venue that would “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Walthamstow has developed into a would create extra business for complement their plans. Hoping for change for the better and for local multicultural area. Having a cinema Trust because it’s vital to the people to be proud of the town once small businesses like ourselves. The an exciting future.” community, bringing all nations in Walthamstow will attract a variety cinema would also change nightlife more; the restoration of the cinema of people. Walthamstow already has Catrin Roberts, manager, The Victoria public together using film.” would be an invaluable step towards of the area which is at present quite house, 186 Hoe Street E17 4QL excellent public transport links, which dull and scary place to find yourself G Roberts, 100% Hair Studio, 129 Hoe Street this.” makes it easy to get into. I have seen E17 4RX at night.” “I support Waltham Forest Cinema Nicky Place, co-owner/director, Build creative how the opening of theatre venue down design studio, Unit 15, 12-15 Hatherley Mews Ivan Spanec, Daisy’s coffee shop, 176 Hoe Trust because it is a great opportunity E17 4QP the road has changed the area. Having Street E17 4QH a cinema will improve it even more.” to revive Walthamstow night life. We need a local cinema for our children El Hadi, L’Hirrondelle Coffee Shop, 160 Hoe Street E17 4QH and public in general.” Frank Escuderu, Grove Cafe café and bar, 21 Hatherley Mews E17 4QP 40 41 ‘I have long been a supporter of the EMD cinema – it is an iconic feature in Walthamstow with a rich history. Finance and I understand that the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust are developing plans sustainability with the aim of restoring the cinema and I am fully in support of this.’ Iain Duncan Smith MP for Chingford and Woodford Green

This vision is based on a social enterprise model which, in this case, means that the venue will be owned by a charitable trust with the activities and programme commercially run to generate income. It will not be seeking any public funding or subsidy towards running costs and must therefore generate profits to be sustainable.

After the cost of the activities, profits will be owned by the charity and will be allocated towards ensuring the long term future of the building and funding education and audience development work.

There are two key areas, ongoing revenue projections and capital costs.

Revenue

Based on the business model of cinema, live comedy and performance, eating and drinking, the Trust has commissioned a panel of independent experts to create a detailed business plan and to test the initial assumptions.

‘The Waltham Forest Cinema Trust These are not included here but can be discussed as appropriate and upon request. By partnering with high proposal could make this building a real quality organisations, the venue can both reduce its overheads and extend its reach to attract the very best performers and programme content. jewel in our town centre for generations to come. Not only will it bring much needed The plans have been phased to show Phase 1, refurbishment of existing auditorium, and Phase 2 additional new evening entertainment to Walthamstow build to include new cinema screens, restaurant and Education space. Phase 1 generates a turnover of £700k with surplus of £196k for financing costs and profit; Phase 2 gives £1.4m turnover and a surplus of £650k which can be enjoyed by all the community, towards financing and profit. but the jobs if will offer and investment it will clearly generate in the surrounding area Capital as well will mean its benefits will be felt far and wide. It has widespread support from The capital costs of this project are estimated at approximately £12m. This is based on comparisons with similar residents of many and all backgrounds projects and professional advice on the architectural plans. They assume a purchase of the building at an estimated valuation to be determined by the District Surveyor. as well as our local business community who see the commercial and economic The advantage of a social enterprise model, allied with the strength of the vision and the architectural merit of the advantages of this bid and as the local MP building, enables us to access both charitable fundraising and commercial finance. I will do all I can to help it be successful Waltham Forest becomes a priority area for the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2013 and we are in discussion with them too. This building has a fantastic heritage as well as some key charitable foundations and major arts patrons. In addition to these major grants, we shall that the Trust proposal honours, and if the undertake a professionally run fundraising campaign utilising the vast experience and contacts within the team. Trust is successful in its bid to restore and The balance of the capital budget will come from commercial financing which the revenue projections are able to run this venue it represent real hope for a support. bright future for our community too.’ As a general indication as to the health of the market overall, live performance venues such as Hammersmith Apollo Stella Creasy and Koko have recently exchanged hands for considerable sums, cinema groups have been reporting record MP for Walthamstow attendances and comedy has never been more popular on our TV screens and in venues up and down the country.

42 43 Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association Circle of the main auditorium of the Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association

‘As an English Heritage Champion I am a passionate supporter of the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust and the Save Walthamstow Cinema Campaign. I am committed to seeing this fabulous building becoming an entertainment hub for the community once again. As one CONTACT DETAILS of the last remaining cinemas to have an art deco interior designed by the great For press enquiries please contact Theodore Komisarjevsky, the cinema is [email protected] big part of Walthamstow’s heritage. I am 020 7478 0142 committed to seeing that it is a big part of Walthamstow’s future too.’ For all other enquiries please contact Jeanette Arnold [email protected] GLA member for Waltham Forest 020 7478 0107

44 A 2012 illustration titled 'The EMD / Granada Cinema Walthamstow' by Ant Baena