Change of scene at the Picture House

Jun 7 2008 by Sam Wood, The Journal

INNOVATIVE plans to transform the disused West Jesmond Picture House into a modern office block will go on public display next week.

Local property investors MK Partnership, who own the land, have released an artist’s impression of what the development will look like, if it is approved by Newcastle Council planners later this month.

The cinema on Lyndhurst Avenue, opposite West Jesmond Metro Station, closed in 1993.

It has since fallen into a state of disrepair and many of the period features from the early 20th Century building have decayed. In August last year, local property investors MK Partnership held a public consultation on the plans. Following suggestions from the public and the council the designs have been amended and a planning application submitted.

Sunil Mehra, of MK partnership, said they had taken the public’s views into account when finalising the plans.

He told The Journal: “We have made some changes since last year. The building is now a bit smaller and the top floors are more tapered so the building is less imposing. It will only be slightly higher than the cinema is now.

“We took a lot of the responses from the public into account.

“Designing a commercial building in a residential area is very tricky but I believe that after much time and effort, we have a successful design that works.”

The building may also help support the Royal British Legion in Jesmond, which is under threat due to dwindling numbers. Mr Mehra said: “We are looking at leasing their car park for at least the next five years to provide parking for our development, and contributing a sum of money to the club which could help keep it afloat.”

Jack Wombwell, Chairman of the Newcastle Central Royal British Legion said: “We are delighted that MK Partnership have offered to help us out. This could provide a substantial cash injection which could turn our fortunes around.”

The building will have about 410 sq m of shop space and 1,047 sq m of office space. An application has been made for cafe and shops on the ground floor.

Designs will be on display at the Royal British Legion, West Jesmond Avenue, Jesmond on Tuesday from 1pm-8pm.