Cinema is finally set to reopen (From Thisisdorset)

Cinema is finally set to reopen

11:00am Thursday 17th May 2007 in News

EIGHT years after its sudden closure, Bridport's Palace Cinema is reopening tomorrow.

The cinema closed without warning in March 1999 after operators Reeltime Entertainment said they found corroding steelwork on the balcony.

There were numerous ideas of how to save the building, including the town council running it as a trust. Behind the scenes negotiations came and went until finally it was bought by Peter Hitchin in 2002.

Mr Hitchin said: "It has been a long struggle to reopen the cinema, but at last the films are rolling again and I hope everyone enjoys the new decorations together with the added facilities of the bar and the restaurant.

"Hopefully our idea of having a meal in the cinema either before or after the film or a drink at the bar will be a welcome addition.

"We very much look forward to entertaining the people of Bridport and providing a place where they can watch films and occasional stage productions of music, theatre, cabaret and comedy."