BAM Construction has been appointed to complete the re-development of the old Regent Cinema in Redcar. The Regent Cinema, formerly the New Pavilion, has been a local landmark for more than 100 years. Following its closure in 2018, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council developed a plan to rebuild the single-screen cinema as a three-screen complex.
The new £9.7m facility is being funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority and will feature three screens with 94, 56, and 34 seats respectively. The council aspires to get an independent operator who might occasionally show something other than superhero blockbusters.
Councillor Wayne Davies, cabinet member for economic development at Redcar & Cleveland Council, said:
“We know people have had to adapt their lifestyles following the outbreak of coronavirus, but we are as committed as ever to delivering exciting and ambitious regeneration projects for our residents and visitors who begin to find a ‘new normal’.”
Source of quoted text: https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk
The cinema is expected to open in spring 2022.
DESIGN
Designed by GT3 Architects, the two-story building will feature a glass-walled foyer, to make the most of the sea views. In addition to this, the structure will incorporate glazed terracotta tiles and an entrance canopy. The plans also include the construction of a new sea defense structure from the beach to the promenade level.
On the demolition of a heritage theatre, Construction director Tony Fitzgerald said:
“We’re not just a major construction firm which has a local presence; we develop, design, construct and operate buildings, and our sister company BAM Nuttall are leading marine specialists. They have provided advice on the sub-structure design with suitable materials and solutions for the coastal environment and more importantly tidal working knowledge. This expertise, plus our collaborative and high-tech way of working, are what we bring to making this historic part of Redcar live again. Being 150 years old ourselves and having built in the North East since 1916, we know that it’s a tremendous shame to demolish a lovely old theatre from the 1920s for which there is some local affection; however, we know the building is beyond saving.”
“But the new scheme looks eye-catching. It’s built right onto the beach, uses natural light, and has a terracotta façade, and it will provide that special building which enhances any location.”
Source of quoted text: https://www.insidermedia.com
Currently, BAM Construction is carrying out works to improve the sewerage system before the main demolition and groundworks can take place in the coming weeks.
Suzanne Blair, associate director at GT3, said:
“The building is situated on a prominent seafront location, so we wanted the design to reflect that as well as respond to the monolithic stone, brick, and concrete of the town – but with a contemporary style. The design therefore draws inspiration from the rich history of the site and the art deco style of the existing building – which is due to be demolished following safety issues.
“As a result, following extensive consultations, the design provides a contemporary venue and meeting space for the whole community. It celebrates the history of the site in the style and elevation while also successfully capturing the wide views of the ocean and town centre, so we’re thrilled to see the project start on site.”
To this, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added:
“It’s great to hear that spades will soon be in the ground for the redevelopment of the Regent cinema. As we look to recover our economy from the devastating effects of the coronavirus pandemic, we need to do all we can to get people back into our towns with confidence, spending money in our brilliant businesses for the long-term as well as the short.”
Source of quoted text: https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk
