Auchterarder’s old picture house may be set for a transformation after plans have been revealed to restore the cinema to its former glory.
A planning application submitted by Auchterarder Picturehouse, could see a total revival of the building on Townhead, including a restoration of original 1920s features.
It will see the return of a cinema to the town for the first time since 1963 with a garden, second screen and retail spaces also part of the project.
‘A back in time experience’ at Auchterarder cinema
Peter Laisen, director of Auchterarder Picturehouse, said: “I want people to walk in and feel like they’ve gone back in time.
“We want it to be a place place for people to relax and enjoy their surroundings.
“It will be a cultural hub with exhibitions, events and have heritage to it. We want it to become a focal point for heritage in Auchterarder.
“So far the reception (from the community) has been fabulous.”
Peter also feels the picture house, which he hopes to have open by 2024, will complement other businesses in the area.
He added: “We need to give people a reason to visit Auchterarder, and I will make it my aim to get people here.
“We need more offering and compelling reasons for people to visit and spend time on the High Street instead of being in front of a tele.”
Return of Auchterarder’s picture house
The original cinema, owned by JB Milne Theatres, featured shops, an art deco foyer and a tea room.
The cinema opened in September 1926 and was used by locals until its closure in 1963.
It was then bought over and used as an antiques shop for 56 years, until the shop closed in 2019.
Previously, the council had approved plans for the building to be demolished, but those plans were scrapped in 2019 when it went up for auction.
The listed building is described as “a rare example of an early small-town
cinema in Perth and Kinross.”
A new lease of life
Renovation of the front of the building will see its original features and entrance preserved, according to the plans.
To accommodate for the bar and retail space, a cottage adjacent will be demolished and a section at the back of the building will also be removed to make more space for the garden.
An acoustic barrier will be built around the garden to limit noise pollution which is expected to be as loud as a “hotel external dining area.”
Planners have emphasised that great care will be taken in the restoration process.
The planning application is open for public comments until November 25.
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