PLANS to bring Stalybridge’s former cinema back to life have finally been revealed.
The Palace, on Market Street, has stood empty since the nightclub contained within the building closed.
But Monopoly Events, headed by Andy Kleek, has lodged proposals with Tameside Council which would see it turned into a food hall, bar, restaurant and music/ entertainment establishment.
And if approved, it will have its former name sit proudly above its entrance.
Documents supporting the proposal highlight just how vital they believe it is for the structure, which was built in 1913 as the Empire Palace Picture Theatre.
Subsequently named the Palace Cinema, it operated until 2003 and was converted to Rififi nightclub the following year. That closed in 2012 but Khaleasi and The Platinum Lounge did operate from there.
Documents state: “The building is significant in the local context (i.e. to Stalybridge) for its historical interest as an example of an early purpose-built cinema designed in Neoclassical style, prominently located at the western gateway to the town centre.
“Its visual contribution to the conservation area is marred by the continuing deterioration resulting from its disuse, which if unchecked, ultimately places the building at risk.”
The ground floor plans would see four food outlets placed around the outside with a central seating area and small bars at each end.
An ‘outdoor garden area’ would also be placed next to the building, where one used to be when it was Rififi nightclub, but part of that will be taken up by a small extension to form an indoor seating area.
The first floor would change from its current layout, with bars at either end and a dance floor in the middle.
Under the new scheme, a void would occupy where the dancefloor is now, with tables around it overlooking the ground floor.
A jazz stage would be placed roughly where the bar at the Waterloo Road end stands while the one at the Market Street side will sit on a mezzanine.
An outdoor terrace would also be installed on the side closest to the junction of the two roads.
And documents state how the applicants believe approval would benefit Stalybridge.
They add: “The proposal will deliver the positive effect of arresting the long deterioration of the building and securing its future by putting it to a sustainable and active alternative use which will also generate significant benefits to the local economy.
“The appearance of the building will be enhanced by sensitive restoration, which also encompasses a new entrance canopy and subservient side extension to form a seating area.
“The design approach is influenced by Art Deco precedent, which is appropriate as this reflects the aesthetic of the golden age of cinema building in the middle years of the 20th century.
“The proposal will enhance the building and its contribution to the conservation area and is thus in accordance with both national guidance and the local development plan heritage policy.
“The application therefore merits approval without delay.”
Tameside Council’s Speaker’s Panel (Planning) committee will decide whether to grant or refuse permission.