Hi Ian,
Sorry I didn’t get to introduce myself on the night. I realised after the event that there were quite a few fellow enthusiasts who had made the trip especially.
Give the projectionist his/her dues as it was there spur-of-the-momentidea entirely to raise the house lights when our group came in.
I was pleased that my small group of friends were all up for it.
Not for definite yet. The news announced today stated that they hoped to carry out an initial clean up first and get it open as soon as August, but this may be a bit optimistic. Then once open they will implement the major refurbishment, restoration etc ( I would love to see the mural reinstated )They aim to keep screens open for the majority of time whilst work is done on other areas so that they have constant business coming in.
Just as a point of interest are you the same Ian who provided the Odeon photo at the top of this entry?
Were you there on closing night? I was speaking to David Eve and he mentioned an Ian who was taking photo’s of the interior that evening. Didn’t get a chance really to speak to all those who had made the journey especially.
For my sines I was the chap dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow for the farewell.
Good news everyone. The Odeon’s lease has been bought by Reel Cinemas who plan to reopen the building and restore it to its Art Deco glory. I have submitted a story for the Cinema Treasures news page so read more there when its posted.
It has been reported today that a leading UK cinema is one of the main contenders to take over the former Odeon building.
The closing date for offers on the lease was last week, and the site is believed to have attracted a great deal of interest, although new uses or proposals have been kept under wraps.
An announcement should be made in the next few weeks, according to the selling agents, who have also said that they believe its a good site and shouldn’t be closed.
The offers are now being considered by the Odeon board.
I’m not one to count chickens before they have hatched, but I would hope everyone on Cinema Treasures will keep their fingers crossed for the campaign team and indeed for the filmgoers of York.
Update:– Selling agents for the cinema have set a final deadline of February 28 for offers on the lease.
According to reports, 15 interested parties have come forward as part of the informal tender process. Potential new owners have been told to submit their “final and best offers” by this date.
It is thought that there has been a wide range of interest from developers to leisure operators, so it now remains to be seen who will come forward with the best offer and what these plans for future use are. The only rumour to have come from this process has been the idea of turning it into a snooker club. Any other plans/uses have not been made public.
Under a user clause the building can be used as a cinema, theatre or other place of public entertainment, and we understand that more than one regional cinema operator have tentatively expressed an interest in taking it over.
The lease was on offer for bids over £650,000, which includes the complex of shop units that are part of the cinema building.
This is a building of national importance. No Odeon retains it’s original interior but although York is probably most recognised from its fabulous art deco brick exterior, the interior remains largely intact, through a sensitive tripling scheme in the early 1970’s.
What an opportunity for an enlightened new owner to put back some of the 1937 splendor again. Uncover the mural and the grilles in the auditorium, the orchestra pit rail, and get the cove lighting working again. Reinstate some of the painted effects, such as the banding round the double main staircase.
York is in need of quality entertainment venues and the Odeon has this in spades, it just needs a light makeover.
THE ODEON CELEBRATED ITS 70TH BIRTHDAY ON THURSDAY THE 1ST OF FEBRUARY – SADLY IN A SHUTTERED STATE AND NO LONGER WELCOMING FILMS FANS.
Talks are apparently going on between the council and a prospective purchaser of the lease (although I have been informed at this stage these are confidential) and concern issues over the listed status of the building and what can and cannot be done to the cinema. Campaigners have heard on the grapevine that one company have made approaches to run it into a snooker club! How this would effect the interior is anyones guess, but its vitally important now, and under any new plans that any original features are preserved. A lot remains covered over including the foyer mural and large trough light fixture which has been out of the publics gaze for over 40 years. The original ventilation grilles in the auditorium also survive but were boxed in when the cinema was tripled in 1972 and the seating extended forwards.
This is a unique example of cinema architecture and the interior is largely intact. Anything which will needlessly alter or destroy this will be opposed.
There is no sense as to why the interior shouldn’t be brought back to life. We are just seeking an enlightened new owner who loves the building as much as we do!!
Exactly Kev – Leisure sector can cover a multitude of uses AND misuses, so thats why I’m deferring proper celebrations till the purchaser and future use of our Odeon are known.
One of my campaign colleagues has spent a lot of time approaching potential new operators with a view to them taking on the lease. From what I know he hasn’t had very much of positive feedback or response. Price of the lease seems to have been a factor (were they wanting freehold??)cost of refurbishment to anything approaching a decent standard as well as the decision by a major circuit to abandon York seems to have put them off.
I am also in the process of contacting the councils conservation officer to see if the selling agents have made any approach to them with regards the issues over the listed building status as detailed in the newspaper report.
Its even more important that features should be preserved and not fall to some half-assed cheap re-development.
Possible Good News. It was reported yesterday in our local paper that new operators could be taking over the Odeon by the New Year. The selling agents remained tight lipped about their identity but said that they were from the leisure sector!?
Whilst this is great news in that the building is not being left to rot, we do need to know what the building will be used for before we crack open the champagne!! There is still a need for a city centre located cinema (as Jason’s posting makes clear) and with York’s housing developments experiencing a boom at the moment, city centre venues will be all the more important.
A spokesman said that it was hoped that the lease would be sold in the next few months once issues over its Grade II listed features had been addressed. This may refer to the original facade sign that is the last remaining Odeon sign of its type in the whole of the UK. Obviously if a new operator is taking the cinema on they will want their name above the door, but hopefully the sign can be preserved in some way. Donate it to me and I’ll preserve it in my own collection!!!
Under current planning clauses, the building can be used as a cinema, theatre or any other place of public entertainment.
Lets hope the possible purchasers are an enlightened cinema chain (do they still exist??) with a love for restoring old cinema buildings to their former art deco glory.
For sale boards have finally gone up on the former Odeon cinema in
York, which closed on 31st of August.
Leeds estate agents Colliers Cre are marketing the long lease (which
is believed to run till 2035)for offers in excess of £650,000.
They are marketing it as “cinema premises or suitable for
alternative uses – subject to obtaining planning and other consents.”
Details given state:
“The property is arranged over ground, mezzanine and first-floor
levels and comprises a foyer, three auditoria, projection suite and
ancillary accommodation, together with retail units.”
Under a user clause, the building can be used as a cinema, theatre
or any other place of public entertainment, and there is a total
floor space of almost 20,000 square feet.
It is believed that more than one regional cinema operator has
tentatively expressed an interest in taking over the site although
their interest may not result in any firm bid.
From a source I understand that Apollo cinemas did make an offer but
this was rejected by Odeon?? Another source have said that “Reel"
may be interested in the site??
Since closure the building has already been branded one of Yorks
worst eyesores (probably in view of the extensive boarding that now
covers the building and the fact that it stands on one of the main
approaches into the city)
Tenants of the adjoining shop units have also complained that the
alleyway between them and the cinema is becoming a magnet for
drinkers and drug-users.
Lets all hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel for this
fantastic building. Either that or does anyone out there have a
spare 3 quarters of a million on them and I’ll get it up and running
again :¬))
From what I’ve been told, all the projection equipment is being removed by Odeon and put into their store. Seats, draperies etc are supposed to be left in situ.
Hi Kev, Its been a bit of a shock to see the building all boarded up but rest assured the fight will go on to preserve this deco landmark. There’s so much scope as to what can be done or introduced to the cinema (such as a cafe/bar grille for customers etc in the upstairs foyer) that its a shame that the owners didn’t have the same imagination or enthusiasm.
One of my fellow camapaigners had been approaching other operators directly with a view to generating some interest in taking over the lease so he may have already approached the Empire circuit, but I will check and if needs be approach them myself.
I’m still pestering my employers, Norwich Union, into recognising the importance of this cinema, seeing as they own the freehold of the site, so we’ll see what becomes of that.
Thanks for your kind comments blakey692002. Apparently York management had wanted to do something to mark the closure after 69 years, but they were vetoed by Odeons regional office. I agree the manager could have said a few words though.
I drove past the cinema last night and saw that they had already been hard at work boarding the place up. A very depressing site.
The campaign will continue. Watch this space for updates.
I drove past the cinema last night and found it had already been boarded up. Good in a way that they have moved quickly to deter York’s vandal element but still depressing to see.
A friend of mine asked a member of the cinemas staff why they hadn’t done anything special for the last night. We were told that the cinemas managers HAD wanted to do something special but that their regional office had said NO.
Goes to show how much love the Odeon company had for their York site.
But don’t worry the closure was marked by a poster in one of the cases outside!!!!!!!
A big thank you to all who made the last show and helped us say goodbye (for now) to the Odeon. The atmosphere is what its about at this deco gem despite the lame hollywood comedy the company had on offer.
Even the staff were cheerful despite many of them being made redundant and for those of us foolish enough to arrive in fancy dress. (Yes that was me as Captain Jack Sparrow!!) It goes to show that there is still a place in the community for this wonderful cinema.
This is by no means the end of the show folks, merely an intermission.
Ian- Thanks for the message of support, its very much appreciated. Its often an uphill struggle sometimes with campaigning but it heartens me to hear from like minded individuals. As an eBay addict its more than likely that was me you were bidding against for the Odeon ashtray which has pride of place in my cinema fixtures collection.
I’m very sorry to hear of your bereavement but appreciate you taking the time in making it to the Odeon before closure.
We’re told by Odeon that no-one wants to take on the lease of the cinema because of the costs involved in refurbishing it, which personally I think is a load of rubbish. There is nothing structurally wrong with the building and improvements could be made with little outlay to begin with. Funds could then be generated to look at starting a restoration project (the hidden mural for example) and perhaps more comfortable seating. All this could be done in phases.
There could be the provision of a cafe bar or grille in the upstairs foyer. The possibilities are endless.
I am still plugging away the importance of this building with the freehold owners Norwich Union, and by coincidence who I work for, as a community venue and worthwhile restoration project.
They say their hands are tied at present as it is Odeon who are marketing the sale of their lease and it is up to the tenant what they do with their business!! Don’t worry though I’ll take this to the companies Chief Executive if I have to. They have a responsibility to look after this building or find an organisation that will.
I’ve been plugging away also with the local media to get our message out there, both on Radio York last week and this morning on the BBC Look North programme.
It may close to the public today, but it won’t be closing permanently whilst people are still fighting for it.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will be a full house for the last screening tonight.
I will update everyone with a report tomorrow.
Thanks again Ian.
Thanks for your message Michael, This is a building I have had a great passion about for a long long time. I saw Star Wars here when I was five years of age and many other memorable films.
York is world reknowned for its historic architecture and this is, by far, the most important example from the 20th century that the city has.
The exterior looks almost exactly the same as the day it opened whilst internally,there behind the layers of later paint and 1960s/70s refurbishments are glimpses of original deco fittings. From doors to railings, windows and even some of the seating.
Now the work begins on finding a future for this monument to the golden age of cinema. Not mothballed as a museum, but new cutting edge cinema technology hand in hand with a restored period interior.What an asset this would be to York.
It seems to work in other countries so I don’t know why the UK is so slow to catch on.
Maybe it to do with the fact that cinema circuits here seem to be owned by private equity firms who have no interests in film presentation only redevelopment potential.
I have so many ideas how this cinema could become a flagship that I certainly aren’t giving up hope.
Now all I need is the money :¬)))
If anyone is in the York area this month, as one of the campaign team I wanted to encourage people to come along to the Odeon, on the evening of Thursday 31st of August, to the final show, after 69 years of film entertainment.
Management have said that they have yet to decide what will be
happening on the last night, so I’ve read that as probably nothing!!
As circuits mark closures with little or no publicity, no big bang,
just more of a whimper, it would be fantastic to get one last full
capacity audience in Screen 1, still the best place in York to
experience the big screen feel.
What’s more, if you’re feeling bold, we want you to come along in
fancy dress, either as your favourite film star (past or present) or
in the fashions from the late 1930’s, when the Odeon first threw open
its doors to the public.
We’ve shown in our 3 year campaign that there is still the support
for a traditional high street cinema, in a convenient location and
not ridiculously over-priced, despite what the current leaseholders
think. The local population continues to grow as new housing
developments are built, making the demand for a suitable local
leisure venue all the more important.
This doesn’t mark the end of the road. Work is still continuing
behind the scenes to publicise the plight of this Art Deco gem and we
look upon this closure as a temporary one, whilst a more enlightened
concern realises its potential.
We are also thrilled to announce two more celebrity supporters. Eric
Knowles and Maureen Lipman.
The last film has yet to be announced but being the end of August it
will probably be one of the late summer blockbusters. Tickets are
usually available the week before, either from the cinemas box
office or over the internet.
So tell your family, friends and neighbours to dig out their glad
rags, get their tickets booked and get down to the Odeon’s “Last
Hurrah” (for now!) We’ve got 799 seats to fill.
Thanks for both your comments Tristar and Kev. The Odeons character is the best thing its got going for it, both externally and internally and is one of the main points we’ve always tried to put across to the owners with our campaign. Screen 1 is as you say one of the best places to see a film. Sadly the Odeon company are all about bringing the nice shiny conveyer belt mentality of the multiplex to buildings like these. Plus the fact that they are no longer an entertainment company, just part of a private equity firm, more concerned with property development. I travelled to Australia recently and there the operators know a thing or two about catering for film fans and treating their older properties with a lot more respect than we do in theis country. Thinking about having a meal out, well there are cinemas where you can relax in a luxury leather reclining seat and enjoy an a la carte meal, with maybe a glass of beer or wine. A private lounge to enjoy pre or post movie drinks. What a fantastic concept to bring to cinemas such as the York Odeon. Beats plastic popcorn and watered down syrupy drinks don’t you think?
Thanks for the suggestion in contacting the new Empire cinema circuit. Definately worth a shot. I understand they are actually taking steps to bring quality to cinemas and maybe a little bit of the old-style history too.
Please keep your support and suggestions coming in. We need your help.
More News:– Continuing problems with the boiler have meant that during the current cold weather the largest screen which seats around 800 has been closed to the public. A spokeswoman confirmed that the 2 smaller screens are being kept warm by portable heaters. She said ‘To protect our customers and staff, we will only operate an auditorium if the temperature is higher than 16 degrees C. Once the weather has improved then they hope to reopen it. Its the latest in a long line of problems and as the 2 week Easter break began at the weekend one can only imagine how much more money they will lose?
Further to my previous posting it has also been revealed that the building is owned by the Norwich Union Insurance group, who have their head office in the city, and which has me as one of its employees!!! I was as shocked as most people to hear this news, as throughout the 2 year campaign they have not revealed their ownership. They have owned the freehold of the cinema for 15 years and apparently negotiations are now taking place as to the buildings future. The current lease runs until February 10, 2035.
I hope to discuss the buildings future with the relevant department within Norwich Union and to see what their next move is.
Colin – The building is thankfully listed Grade 2 so any development will have to contend with this hurdle initially. I’m still going to fight on for its preservation, and hopefully I will be joined by many others?
This really is a sleeping beauty.
Odeon have announced that the 1937 grade II listed Odeon will close
its doors to the public in late August.
“The decision follows an extensive period of assessment for the
cinema’s economic viability, during which we made every effort to
find a solution to its financial position and enable the cinema to
remain open,” said a spokeswoman.
This follows a vigorous campaign by local and national film lovers.
Although they have said that the decision was taken ‘with regret'
they have spent the last two years effectively running the building
into the ground to the point of threadbare carpets, naked lightbulbs
hanging from light fixtures and disgusting toilet facilities. It
would seem they were merely biding their time to announce what was
obviously on the cards for a while.
The company also claim that they face competition from the City
Screen and Vue cinemas, despite the Vue complex having been in
operation for 16 years!
It was only last week that the buildings boiler broke down leaving
patrons sat in freezing conditions whilst watching a film.
Odeon have confirmed in their press release that they do not own the
building and lease it from a property management company? ( anyone
out there know which company??)
Will any operator step into the ring and take it on?
So its 5 months till the end but I intend to explore every
possibility to keep this fantastic Art Deco monument open. Any one
with ideas are welcome to send them to me.
This is what happens when venture capital companies own cinema
circuits.
Odeon bosses are considering a million pound refurbishment of its 1937 York landmark in Blossom Street after over a year of uncertainty as to its future.
Regional managers have spoken to the city’s MP and told him that they intend to present proposal to company chiefs within the next few weeks.
Whilst good news after all our campaining one of the ideas muted is the subdivision of Screen One into 3 screens. This would be a shame as this is currently the largest auditorium in the city on a pleasing stadium arrangement and which preserves most of the original features. The circle was extended down to the former front stalls in 1972. It seats around 800 people and still regularly sells out for the new releases.
It may be a better idea to look to the 2 smaller screens, created out of the stalls area as they are pretty awful and the space could be arranged far better or with some imagination and planning permission it could be unobtrusively extended into the far too small car park without altering the stunning elevation of the building.
It is hoped that the plans will be sympathetic to the remaining art deco features of this Grade II listed building.
Hi Ian,
Sorry I didn’t get to introduce myself on the night. I realised after the event that there were quite a few fellow enthusiasts who had made the trip especially.
Give the projectionist his/her dues as it was there spur-of-the-momentidea entirely to raise the house lights when our group came in.
I was pleased that my small group of friends were all up for it.
Thing is now what to wear for the re-opening.
Not for definite yet. The news announced today stated that they hoped to carry out an initial clean up first and get it open as soon as August, but this may be a bit optimistic. Then once open they will implement the major refurbishment, restoration etc ( I would love to see the mural reinstated )They aim to keep screens open for the majority of time whilst work is done on other areas so that they have constant business coming in.
Just as a point of interest are you the same Ian who provided the Odeon photo at the top of this entry?
Were you there on closing night? I was speaking to David Eve and he mentioned an Ian who was taking photo’s of the interior that evening. Didn’t get a chance really to speak to all those who had made the journey especially.
For my sines I was the chap dressed as Captain Jack Sparrow for the farewell.
Tim.
Good news everyone. The Odeon’s lease has been bought by Reel Cinemas who plan to reopen the building and restore it to its Art Deco glory. I have submitted a story for the Cinema Treasures news page so read more there when its posted.
Tim.
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL?!?!?!?
It has been reported today that a leading UK cinema is one of the main contenders to take over the former Odeon building.
The closing date for offers on the lease was last week, and the site is believed to have attracted a great deal of interest, although new uses or proposals have been kept under wraps.
An announcement should be made in the next few weeks, according to the selling agents, who have also said that they believe its a good site and shouldn’t be closed.
The offers are now being considered by the Odeon board.
I’m not one to count chickens before they have hatched, but I would hope everyone on Cinema Treasures will keep their fingers crossed for the campaign team and indeed for the filmgoers of York.
Will update when I hear more.
Tim.
Update:– Selling agents for the cinema have set a final deadline of February 28 for offers on the lease.
According to reports, 15 interested parties have come forward as part of the informal tender process. Potential new owners have been told to submit their “final and best offers” by this date.
It is thought that there has been a wide range of interest from developers to leisure operators, so it now remains to be seen who will come forward with the best offer and what these plans for future use are. The only rumour to have come from this process has been the idea of turning it into a snooker club. Any other plans/uses have not been made public.
Under a user clause the building can be used as a cinema, theatre or other place of public entertainment, and we understand that more than one regional cinema operator have tentatively expressed an interest in taking it over.
The lease was on offer for bids over £650,000, which includes the complex of shop units that are part of the cinema building.
This is a building of national importance. No Odeon retains it’s original interior but although York is probably most recognised from its fabulous art deco brick exterior, the interior remains largely intact, through a sensitive tripling scheme in the early 1970’s.
What an opportunity for an enlightened new owner to put back some of the 1937 splendor again. Uncover the mural and the grilles in the auditorium, the orchestra pit rail, and get the cove lighting working again. Reinstate some of the painted effects, such as the banding round the double main staircase.
York is in need of quality entertainment venues and the Odeon has this in spades, it just needs a light makeover.
More news to follow.
Let the Odeon
THE ODEON CELEBRATED ITS 70TH BIRTHDAY ON THURSDAY THE 1ST OF FEBRUARY – SADLY IN A SHUTTERED STATE AND NO LONGER WELCOMING FILMS FANS.
Talks are apparently going on between the council and a prospective purchaser of the lease (although I have been informed at this stage these are confidential) and concern issues over the listed status of the building and what can and cannot be done to the cinema. Campaigners have heard on the grapevine that one company have made approaches to run it into a snooker club! How this would effect the interior is anyones guess, but its vitally important now, and under any new plans that any original features are preserved. A lot remains covered over including the foyer mural and large trough light fixture which has been out of the publics gaze for over 40 years. The original ventilation grilles in the auditorium also survive but were boxed in when the cinema was tripled in 1972 and the seating extended forwards.
This is a unique example of cinema architecture and the interior is largely intact. Anything which will needlessly alter or destroy this will be opposed.
There is no sense as to why the interior shouldn’t be brought back to life. We are just seeking an enlightened new owner who loves the building as much as we do!!
More news when I have it.
Tim.
Does anyone have any internal pictures from its last years of operation as a bingo hall?
Did/does the interior retains any of its original fittings, doors railings, light fittings etc.
I’d be interested to know.
Exactly Kev – Leisure sector can cover a multitude of uses AND misuses, so thats why I’m deferring proper celebrations till the purchaser and future use of our Odeon are known.
One of my campaign colleagues has spent a lot of time approaching potential new operators with a view to them taking on the lease. From what I know he hasn’t had very much of positive feedback or response. Price of the lease seems to have been a factor (were they wanting freehold??)cost of refurbishment to anything approaching a decent standard as well as the decision by a major circuit to abandon York seems to have put them off.
I am also in the process of contacting the councils conservation officer to see if the selling agents have made any approach to them with regards the issues over the listed building status as detailed in the newspaper report.
Its even more important that features should be preserved and not fall to some half-assed cheap re-development.
As always, more news when I have it.
Possible Good News. It was reported yesterday in our local paper that new operators could be taking over the Odeon by the New Year. The selling agents remained tight lipped about their identity but said that they were from the leisure sector!?
Whilst this is great news in that the building is not being left to rot, we do need to know what the building will be used for before we crack open the champagne!! There is still a need for a city centre located cinema (as Jason’s posting makes clear) and with York’s housing developments experiencing a boom at the moment, city centre venues will be all the more important.
A spokesman said that it was hoped that the lease would be sold in the next few months once issues over its Grade II listed features had been addressed. This may refer to the original facade sign that is the last remaining Odeon sign of its type in the whole of the UK. Obviously if a new operator is taking the cinema on they will want their name above the door, but hopefully the sign can be preserved in some way. Donate it to me and I’ll preserve it in my own collection!!!
Under current planning clauses, the building can be used as a cinema, theatre or any other place of public entertainment.
Lets hope the possible purchasers are an enlightened cinema chain (do they still exist??) with a love for restoring old cinema buildings to their former art deco glory.
Fingers crossed and more news when I have it.
For sale boards have finally gone up on the former Odeon cinema in
York, which closed on 31st of August.
Leeds estate agents Colliers Cre are marketing the long lease (which
is believed to run till 2035)for offers in excess of £650,000.
They are marketing it as “cinema premises or suitable for
alternative uses – subject to obtaining planning and other consents.”
Details given state:
“The property is arranged over ground, mezzanine and first-floor
levels and comprises a foyer, three auditoria, projection suite and
ancillary accommodation, together with retail units.”
Under a user clause, the building can be used as a cinema, theatre
or any other place of public entertainment, and there is a total
floor space of almost 20,000 square feet.
It is believed that more than one regional cinema operator has
tentatively expressed an interest in taking over the site although
their interest may not result in any firm bid.
From a source I understand that Apollo cinemas did make an offer but
this was rejected by Odeon?? Another source have said that “Reel"
may be interested in the site??
Since closure the building has already been branded one of Yorks
worst eyesores (probably in view of the extensive boarding that now
covers the building and the fact that it stands on one of the main
approaches into the city)
Tenants of the adjoining shop units have also complained that the
alleyway between them and the cinema is becoming a magnet for
drinkers and drug-users.
Lets all hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel for this
fantastic building. Either that or does anyone out there have a
spare 3 quarters of a million on them and I’ll get it up and running
again :¬))
Tim.
From what I’ve been told, all the projection equipment is being removed by Odeon and put into their store. Seats, draperies etc are supposed to be left in situ.
Hi Kev, Its been a bit of a shock to see the building all boarded up but rest assured the fight will go on to preserve this deco landmark. There’s so much scope as to what can be done or introduced to the cinema (such as a cafe/bar grille for customers etc in the upstairs foyer) that its a shame that the owners didn’t have the same imagination or enthusiasm.
One of my fellow camapaigners had been approaching other operators directly with a view to generating some interest in taking over the lease so he may have already approached the Empire circuit, but I will check and if needs be approach them myself.
I’m still pestering my employers, Norwich Union, into recognising the importance of this cinema, seeing as they own the freehold of the site, so we’ll see what becomes of that.
Thanks for your kind comments blakey692002. Apparently York management had wanted to do something to mark the closure after 69 years, but they were vetoed by Odeons regional office. I agree the manager could have said a few words though.
I drove past the cinema last night and saw that they had already been hard at work boarding the place up. A very depressing site.
The campaign will continue. Watch this space for updates.
Tim.
AKA (Captain Jack Sparrow)
I drove past the cinema last night and found it had already been boarded up. Good in a way that they have moved quickly to deter York’s vandal element but still depressing to see.
A friend of mine asked a member of the cinemas staff why they hadn’t done anything special for the last night. We were told that the cinemas managers HAD wanted to do something special but that their regional office had said NO.
Goes to show how much love the Odeon company had for their York site.
But don’t worry the closure was marked by a poster in one of the cases outside!!!!!!!
A big thank you to all who made the last show and helped us say goodbye (for now) to the Odeon. The atmosphere is what its about at this deco gem despite the lame hollywood comedy the company had on offer.
Even the staff were cheerful despite many of them being made redundant and for those of us foolish enough to arrive in fancy dress. (Yes that was me as Captain Jack Sparrow!!) It goes to show that there is still a place in the community for this wonderful cinema.
This is by no means the end of the show folks, merely an intermission.
Ian- Thanks for the message of support, its very much appreciated. Its often an uphill struggle sometimes with campaigning but it heartens me to hear from like minded individuals. As an eBay addict its more than likely that was me you were bidding against for the Odeon ashtray which has pride of place in my cinema fixtures collection.
I’m very sorry to hear of your bereavement but appreciate you taking the time in making it to the Odeon before closure.
We’re told by Odeon that no-one wants to take on the lease of the cinema because of the costs involved in refurbishing it, which personally I think is a load of rubbish. There is nothing structurally wrong with the building and improvements could be made with little outlay to begin with. Funds could then be generated to look at starting a restoration project (the hidden mural for example) and perhaps more comfortable seating. All this could be done in phases.
There could be the provision of a cafe bar or grille in the upstairs foyer. The possibilities are endless.
I am still plugging away the importance of this building with the freehold owners Norwich Union, and by coincidence who I work for, as a community venue and worthwhile restoration project.
They say their hands are tied at present as it is Odeon who are marketing the sale of their lease and it is up to the tenant what they do with their business!! Don’t worry though I’ll take this to the companies Chief Executive if I have to. They have a responsibility to look after this building or find an organisation that will.
I’ve been plugging away also with the local media to get our message out there, both on Radio York last week and this morning on the BBC Look North programme.
It may close to the public today, but it won’t be closing permanently whilst people are still fighting for it.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will be a full house for the last screening tonight.
I will update everyone with a report tomorrow.
Thanks again Ian.
Thanks for your message Michael, This is a building I have had a great passion about for a long long time. I saw Star Wars here when I was five years of age and many other memorable films.
York is world reknowned for its historic architecture and this is, by far, the most important example from the 20th century that the city has.
The exterior looks almost exactly the same as the day it opened whilst internally,there behind the layers of later paint and 1960s/70s refurbishments are glimpses of original deco fittings. From doors to railings, windows and even some of the seating.
Now the work begins on finding a future for this monument to the golden age of cinema. Not mothballed as a museum, but new cutting edge cinema technology hand in hand with a restored period interior.What an asset this would be to York.
It seems to work in other countries so I don’t know why the UK is so slow to catch on.
Maybe it to do with the fact that cinema circuits here seem to be owned by private equity firms who have no interests in film presentation only redevelopment potential.
I have so many ideas how this cinema could become a flagship that I certainly aren’t giving up hope.
Now all I need is the money :¬)))
If anyone is in the York area this month, as one of the campaign team I wanted to encourage people to come along to the Odeon, on the evening of Thursday 31st of August, to the final show, after 69 years of film entertainment.
Management have said that they have yet to decide what will be
happening on the last night, so I’ve read that as probably nothing!!
As circuits mark closures with little or no publicity, no big bang,
just more of a whimper, it would be fantastic to get one last full
capacity audience in Screen 1, still the best place in York to
experience the big screen feel.
What’s more, if you’re feeling bold, we want you to come along in
fancy dress, either as your favourite film star (past or present) or
in the fashions from the late 1930’s, when the Odeon first threw open
its doors to the public.
We’ve shown in our 3 year campaign that there is still the support
for a traditional high street cinema, in a convenient location and
not ridiculously over-priced, despite what the current leaseholders
think. The local population continues to grow as new housing
developments are built, making the demand for a suitable local
leisure venue all the more important.
This doesn’t mark the end of the road. Work is still continuing
behind the scenes to publicise the plight of this Art Deco gem and we
look upon this closure as a temporary one, whilst a more enlightened
concern realises its potential.
We are also thrilled to announce two more celebrity supporters. Eric
Knowles and Maureen Lipman.
The last film has yet to be announced but being the end of August it
will probably be one of the late summer blockbusters. Tickets are
usually available the week before, either from the cinemas box
office or over the internet.
So tell your family, friends and neighbours to dig out their glad
rags, get their tickets booked and get down to the Odeon’s “Last
Hurrah” (for now!) We’ve got 799 seats to fill.
Tim..
Thanks for both your comments Tristar and Kev. The Odeons character is the best thing its got going for it, both externally and internally and is one of the main points we’ve always tried to put across to the owners with our campaign. Screen 1 is as you say one of the best places to see a film. Sadly the Odeon company are all about bringing the nice shiny conveyer belt mentality of the multiplex to buildings like these. Plus the fact that they are no longer an entertainment company, just part of a private equity firm, more concerned with property development. I travelled to Australia recently and there the operators know a thing or two about catering for film fans and treating their older properties with a lot more respect than we do in theis country. Thinking about having a meal out, well there are cinemas where you can relax in a luxury leather reclining seat and enjoy an a la carte meal, with maybe a glass of beer or wine. A private lounge to enjoy pre or post movie drinks. What a fantastic concept to bring to cinemas such as the York Odeon. Beats plastic popcorn and watered down syrupy drinks don’t you think?
Thanks for the suggestion in contacting the new Empire cinema circuit. Definately worth a shot. I understand they are actually taking steps to bring quality to cinemas and maybe a little bit of the old-style history too.
Please keep your support and suggestions coming in. We need your help.
Cheers everyone.
Tim..
See the Odeon page for further news on the threatened cinema and a revelation as to who the real owners sre!!
More News:– Continuing problems with the boiler have meant that during the current cold weather the largest screen which seats around 800 has been closed to the public. A spokeswoman confirmed that the 2 smaller screens are being kept warm by portable heaters. She said ‘To protect our customers and staff, we will only operate an auditorium if the temperature is higher than 16 degrees C. Once the weather has improved then they hope to reopen it. Its the latest in a long line of problems and as the 2 week Easter break began at the weekend one can only imagine how much more money they will lose?
Further to my previous posting it has also been revealed that the building is owned by the Norwich Union Insurance group, who have their head office in the city, and which has me as one of its employees!!! I was as shocked as most people to hear this news, as throughout the 2 year campaign they have not revealed their ownership. They have owned the freehold of the cinema for 15 years and apparently negotiations are now taking place as to the buildings future. The current lease runs until February 10, 2035.
I hope to discuss the buildings future with the relevant department within Norwich Union and to see what their next move is.
MORE NEWS WHEN I HAVE IT..
Thanks for the suggestion cjc. I’m looking at every possible way to keep the cinema going and welcome suggestions.
Your support is appreciated.
Colin – The building is thankfully listed Grade 2 so any development will have to contend with this hurdle initially. I’m still going to fight on for its preservation, and hopefully I will be joined by many others?
This really is a sleeping beauty.
SAD DAY FOR YORK.
Odeon have announced that the 1937 grade II listed Odeon will close
its doors to the public in late August.
“The decision follows an extensive period of assessment for the
cinema’s economic viability, during which we made every effort to
find a solution to its financial position and enable the cinema to
remain open,” said a spokeswoman.
This follows a vigorous campaign by local and national film lovers.
Although they have said that the decision was taken ‘with regret'
they have spent the last two years effectively running the building
into the ground to the point of threadbare carpets, naked lightbulbs
hanging from light fixtures and disgusting toilet facilities. It
would seem they were merely biding their time to announce what was
obviously on the cards for a while.
The company also claim that they face competition from the City
Screen and Vue cinemas, despite the Vue complex having been in
operation for 16 years!
It was only last week that the buildings boiler broke down leaving
patrons sat in freezing conditions whilst watching a film.
Odeon have confirmed in their press release that they do not own the
building and lease it from a property management company? ( anyone
out there know which company??)
Will any operator step into the ring and take it on?
So its 5 months till the end but I intend to explore every
possibility to keep this fantastic Art Deco monument open. Any one
with ideas are welcome to send them to me.
This is what happens when venture capital companies own cinema
circuits.
Tim Addyman,
York..
Odeon bosses are considering a million pound refurbishment of its 1937 York landmark in Blossom Street after over a year of uncertainty as to its future.
Regional managers have spoken to the city’s MP and told him that they intend to present proposal to company chiefs within the next few weeks.
Whilst good news after all our campaining one of the ideas muted is the subdivision of Screen One into 3 screens. This would be a shame as this is currently the largest auditorium in the city on a pleasing stadium arrangement and which preserves most of the original features. The circle was extended down to the former front stalls in 1972. It seats around 800 people and still regularly sells out for the new releases.
It may be a better idea to look to the 2 smaller screens, created out of the stalls area as they are pretty awful and the space could be arranged far better or with some imagination and planning permission it could be unobtrusively extended into the far too small car park without altering the stunning elevation of the building.
It is hoped that the plans will be sympathetic to the remaining art deco features of this Grade II listed building.
We will wait and see.