Walthamstow cinema vision v18 120912

A CONTEMPORARY 

VISION FOR 

THE FORMER 

GRANADA CINEMA, 

WALTHAMSTOW 

Reinventing an extraordinary heritage 

to create 21st century entertainment 

in an Olympic borough.

‘Soho Theatre is a powerful comedy 

venue, now known internationally as 

the place for comedians to perform in 

London. I have performed there many 

times, often trying out new work. Their 

plans for a larger venue at the former 

Granada are very positive and, from a 

performer’s perspective, it makes all 

the difference that the people running 

it have a passion for performance in 

general and comedy in particular. My 

first ever gig in London was at a small 

club in Walthamstow and it would 

be a fine idea to be able to return 

to Walthamstow and play one of the 

newest venues in London.’ 

Eddie Izzard 

CONTENTS 

1 Our vision 

2 The team 

3 Heritage 

4 Future programme 

5 Architectural plans 

6 What do local 

people want? 

7 Finance 

Front Cover: The former Granada Cinema 

© McGuffin and Cinema Theatre Association. 

Opposite page: Main auditorium of the former 

Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association. 

This page: The former Granada Cinema in its 

early days © Cinema Theatre Association 

1 

A CONTEMPORARY 

VISION FOR 

THE FORMER 

GRANADA CINEMA, 

WALTHAMSTOW 

A vision rooted in the local community 

that unites the ambitions of local businesses, 

the local authority policies of the Mayor of 

London, Arts Council England, political parties 

and the people of Waltham Forest; this project 

has successfully engaged leading cultural 

organisations and architects to create a viable 

and compelling vision for the future of this 

historic building. 

Waltham Forest Cinema Trust and Soho Theatre

OUR VISION 

Our vision is to create an iconic cultural 

venue with a programme that is contemporary, 

inclusive and respectful of this building’s 

remarkable heritage 

Our vision will: 

• bring an audience to Walthamstow from across 

London and beyond; 

• create a high quality cultural offer in a Borough with 

limited provision; 

• be a driver for economic regeneration working 

alongside the planned multiplex and other local 

businesses to have a transformative effect on Hoe Street. 

We will work with the very best people to create a 

21st Century version of the original cine-variety theatre. 

The programme and activities will include: 

n live comedy, performance and special events in the 

restored main auditorium with 1,000 capactiy; 

n live streaming of major cultural and sporting events; 

n a year round bespoke cinema programme with 

three new screens specialising in independent films; 

n an independent restaurant and bar catering for the 

local community and visiting audiences; 

n space for education, talent development 

and heritage projects. 

2 3 

THE TEAM 

Subject to further discussion and detail, 

the current team includes: 

Waltham Forest Cinema Trust 

The Trust’s founding directors are rooted in the local 

community. They have excellent fundraising experience 

and a track record of delivering similar projects. 

Soho Theatre 

One of the capital’s most successful cultural venues, Soho 

Theatre runs a vibrant comedy and theatre programme, and 

has successfully delivered an £11 million capital project. 

Curzon 

London’s leading independent cinema company will 

programme three cinema screens equipped with the 

latest digital technology. 

Royal Shakespeare Company 

One of the world’s best known theatre companies already 

work within Waltham Forest and plan to develop more 

work for young people and schools in the borough. 

Blonde to Black Pictures 

Sadie Frost’s film production company with partner Emma 

Comley, will develop new film projects, nurture new talent 

and foster collaborations. 

Ian Ritchie CBE 

One of the UK’s leading architects with more than 60 

awards, is leading the design team to restore the building.

Granada Cinema in its heyday 

and in its disused state. 

WALTHAM FOREST 

CINEMA TRUST 

Waltham Forest Cinema Trust is a local company formed in December 

2010. Its aims are to purchase, restore and re-open the former Granada 

cinema in Hoe Street, Walthamstow to the general public. It is a 

company limited by guarantee and a registered charity (no.1144168). 

Registered in Waltham Forest, the Trust’s founding directors have strong 

links to the local community, excellent fundraising experience and a track 

record of delivering similar projects. 

Inspired by the Locum Consulting report in summer 2010, the Trust’s 

founders looked afresh at how a venue on that scale could operate today 

when most cinemas have smaller capacities, modern facilities and are 

multi-screen. The programme mix gave an answer which, in fact, harked 

back to the venue’s heyday. 

By April 2011 the Trust had produced a document outlining their vision. At 

a time when public funding is extremely scarce, both Arts Council England 

and Waltham Forest Council found this compelling enough to take the 

necessary leap of faith to fund the next stage to test feasibility. 

This led to the appointment of Ian Ritchie Architects to create the scheme, 

and a highly experienced team of arts consultant and industry experts 

to assess the business model. The consultancy team are Bryan Savery; 

Richard Oyarzabal; Graham Devlin OBE; and Sue Storr. 

The Trust is chaired by former MP Neil Gerrard and includes local residents 

James Atkinson, Development Director Soho Theatre; Mark Godfrey, Executive 

Director, Soho Theatre; Bill Hodgson, McGuffin Film Society; Roxana Silbert, 

Artistic Director, Birmingham Rep; and Toby Stone, great nephew of Sidney 

Bernstein, the founder of Granada Cinema Chain. 

4 5 

Soho Theatre and 

its cabaret bar. 

SOHO 

THEATRE 

Soho Theatre is London’s most vibrant venue for new writing, 

comedy and cabaret. 

It brings audiences of over 130,000 a year through its doors as well as 

reaching many more people through presenting work at the Edinburgh 

Festival and elsewhere, and through developing projects such as its 

partner venue in Bangalore, India, and a digital arm to provide online 

content. 

It owns the freehold for its building in the heart of the West End from 

which it runs three performance spaces and a bar. This opened 12 years 

ago after an £11m capital project which combined Lottery funding with 

private finance and philanthropic giving to create a mixed use residential, 

entertainment and catering operation. 

It currently operates through two companies: Soho Theatre, a registered charity 

funded by Arts Council England; and Soho Theatre Bar, a commercial trading 

subsidiary which runs the cabaret performance space and busy bar. 

Soho Theatre has a distinguished Board of Trustees which is chaired by 

Nicholas Allott, Managing Director of the Cameron Mackintosh Group of 

Companies. Its Artistic Director is Steve Marmion, one of the UK’s most 

exciting theatre directors, and Executive Director is Mark Godfrey, who ran 

Soho’s capital project and has extensive theatre management experience. 

Soho Theatre is a leading player in the fast-growing comedy market. Its 

programme is carefully curated and makes it one of the most prestigious 

venues in the country with extensive contacts across the comedy industry in 

the UK and internationally. It presents the biggest stars alongside emerging 

names and regularly travels to the comedy festivals in Edinburgh, Montreal 

and Melbourne, presenting work there and seeking out the best new talent.

Curzon Cinema, Soho exterior 

The bar at Curzon Cinema, Soho 

© Curzon Cimema 

CURZON 

CINEMAS 

Curzon Cinemas is London’s leading independent cinema chain. 

Working with Curzon Cinemas we could run a cinema programme from 

the venue’s three digital screens with a total capacity of 350. 

Curzon is London’s leading independent cinema chain. They celebrated 

their 75th anniversary in 2009 and currently operate six venues across 

the capital – Curzon Mayfair, Soho, Renoir, Chelsea , Richmond and 

hmvcurzon in Wimledon. Their flagship venue in Soho is the UK’s 

busiest independent cinema and regularly hosts director Q&A sessions, 

documentary events and much more; it was also voted London’s Number 

One cinema by Time Out readers. 

In Wimbledon, they have successfully run their distinctive brand of 

programming within the HMV store, alongside a nearby multiplex cinema, 

in a flourishing venture which has increased the overall local market for 

cinema. 

Curzon also programmes the film strands in Bridport Arts Centre, 

The Brewhouse in Taunton, The Hawth in Crawley and The Watermark 

in Ivybridge, Devon. 

6 7 

The Swan Theatre, RSC 

in Stratford Upon Avon. 

An RSC young people’s 

theatre workshop © RSC. 

ROYAL 

SHAKESPEARE 

COMPANY 

The RSC is one of the world’s best known theatre companies. 

Its mission is to connect people with Shakespeare and produce bold, 

ambitious work with living writers, actors and artists. 

Based in Stratford-upon-Avon, home to the Royal Shakespeare and Swan 

Theatres (reopened in 2010 after a £112.8m transformation to bring actors 

and audiences closer together), the RSC also plays regularly in London, 

Newcastle and on tour around the UK and across the world. During 2012, 

the RSC produced the World Shakespeare Festival as part of the Cultural 

Olympiad. 

The company also runs a much-admired education programme, working 

with teachers to inspire a life-long love of Shakespeare in young people 

and run events for everyone to explore and participate in its works. The 

RSC would like to extend these events and activities to more people in 

East London. Through partnering with organisations like the RSC, we can 

bring excellent arts education provision to Waltham Forest and broaden 

the opportunities available to local people.

Sadie Frost at the press night of Touched 

at Soho Theatre with guests Kate Moss and 

Ronnie Wood © Dan Wooller 

BLONDE TO 

BLACK PICTURES 

Blonde to Black Pictures formed in the Summer of 2011 by two 

old friends with a commitment to developing and producing 

culturally relevant and commercial independent film. By 

the Autumn they were working with long-standing business 

associate Andrew Green and had begun to build their slate. 

As an actress Sadie has performed on stage and in over 20 films which 

included working with Francis Ford Coppola. In the mid nineties she 

formed Natural Nylon with Jude Law, Ewan McGregor, Sean Pertwee, 

Jonny Lee Miller and Bradley Adams. The company produced eXistenZ, 

directed by renowned writer director David Cronenberg, which was 

followed by Nora, XX/XY, Owning Mahowny and To Kill a King. 

Later Sadie produced the short film Come What May with Rhys Ifans and 

the fashion film Enchantment with Helena Christensen and Liberty Ross, 

then directing her own short film Mrs Olsen. She co-produced Love, 

Honour and Obey starring Jude Law and Ray Winston, and Sky Captain 

starring Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie. 

Most recently Sadie has been working with her co-writer Lucie Barat on new 

pictures Hippy Kids and Dirty Hair which will go into production later this year. 

With Emma Comley their production company Blonde To Black Pictures has a 

slate of five films, two of them going into pre-production this year. 

Sadie writes for three women’s magazines and has two fashion companies 

– the successful Floozie and Iris and Edie. Her fashion label Frostfrench 

received Elle style award for best designer. She also has a skin care range 

launching next year called Palm Springs. 

8 9 

‘It’s not often that architects 

exceed expectations - if only 

because most clients’ hopes 

are often unreasonably 

high. Our hopes were 

exactly that - and we got 

more, and better, than we 

bargained for, on time and 

on budget. Watching the first 

public performance from the 

furthest seat was proof that 

we had achieved our aims for 

our audience, in a splendid 

and charismatic setting.’ 

Sir Christopher Bland 

on Ian Ritchie Architects 

Former chairman of BBC and 

BT, retired chairman of RSC 

Ian Ritchie 

An Ian Ritchie Architects design © IRAL 

The interior of the RSC Courtyard Theatre, 

Stratford-upon-Avon. Copyright Stewart Hemley 

IAN RITCHIE 

ARCHITECTS 

Established in 1981, Ian Ritchie Architects has an international 

reputation for outstanding architecture, intelligent environmental 

and sustainable design and technical innovation. 

Ian Ritchie was elected a Royal Academician in 1998, and RA Professor of 

Architecture in 2004. He created Ian Ritchie Architects in London and Rice 

Francis Ritchie (RFR) design engineers in Paris. 

The practice specialises in performance spaces having designed award 

winning theatres and production centres for high-profile clients, including 

the Royal Shakespeare Company and Plymouth Theatre Royal. 

His practice has also helped realise major architecture, structures and 

sculpture throughout Europe, including the Reina Sofia Museum of Modern 

Art in Madrid, the Louvre Sculpture Courts and Pyramids, the Leipzig Glass 

Hall, French electricity pylons, The Spire - Ireland’s national monument and 

the RSC Courtyard Theatre. 

His architectural practice has received more than 60 national and 

international awards, been shortlisted four times for the Stirling Prize 

and he was the first foreign architect to receive the French Academie 

d’Architecture Grand Silver Medal for Innovation.

HERITAGE 

The former Granada Cinema in Walthamstow is a Grade II* listed building in 

recognition of its architectural and cultural significance. It is one of the finest 

cinemas of its kind in the UK, and one of the few remaining cinemas that has 

the potential to be renovated and returned to wider public use as a heritage 

asset and viable entertainment and cinema venue – the purpose for which it 

was originally designed. 

Built as part of the Granada empire by Sidney Bernstein, to the design of 

Cecil Massey with fine Art Deco and Moorish style, the interiors were by 

celebrated Russian stage designer Theodore Komisarjevsky. It also houses 

the only example of a Christie organ which is still in it’s original setting. 

The former Granada Cinema, and its predecessors on the site, mean that 

186 Hoe Street has been important to the people of Walthamstow as a place 

of entertainment since 1887. It has been an important social focus for the 

community for over a century. 

The building has always served as more than just a cinema. In its heyday, the 

venue hosted concerts by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Duke Ellington, 

Johnny Cash and others – huge stars who had crowds queuing down Hoe 

Street to get in. It featured a restaurant and hosted a regular Christmas 

season panto. 

We believe this heritage should be cherished – and as much as this project is 

about finding a sustainable future for this building, it is also about re-connecting 

with its past. Walthamstow residents going back several generations have 

memories of attending the former Granada Cinema. This project will enable 

them to once again enjoy this important part of their heritage and celebrate it. 

It will help explain the significance of this building, and the wider community in 

which it was built and operated, to a new generation. 

We will work with English Heritage and expert conservationists to restore the 

glorious original features of the building, enabling local people to gain skills 

and learn about restoring historic buildings throughout the process. 

We will work with the British Film Institute and other film industry and heritage 

organisations to create interactive displays based on the building and other 

archive materials, and facilitate interpretation and learning opportunities. We 

will reconfirm this building at the heart of its community, and broaden access to 

people from further afield through digitisation of the archive, organised tours and 

lectures. 

We will ensure that it is not just ticket buyers that benefit from a restored 

venue, but that local people and the wider community can access, and benefit 

from, the building throughout the year. 

We hope to create new special moments in the history of this glorious 

building, by respecting its best traditions while bringing the building into 

the 21st century. 

10 11 

Main auditorium of the former Granada Cinema © Press Association 

‘The UK is a nation of film lovers with 

a proud film heritage. Many older 

cinemas across the country have been 

successfully restored and revived, and 

are thriving in the digital age. We need 

to cherish our cultural and sporting 

institutions, both of which share 

the ability to bring together diverse 

communities, to create opportunity and to 

develop new talent. These plans give the 

former Granada the means to do exactly 

that and they have my full support.’ 

Heather Rabbatts CBE 

Director of the Football Association, 

Trustee of the Royal Opera House & former 

board member of the UK Film Council

Imagine joining us 

for events like the 

Opening Ceremony 

live streamed in the 

main auditorium... 

or a gospel choir 

live performance... 

or seeing 

Eddie Izzard 

performing 

in Hoe St. 

FUTURE 

PROGRAMME... 

Imagine a stunning art deco building at the centre of its 

community with thrilling live performances, year round 

cinema and an innovative education programme. 

The strength of the team assembled here will ensure a programme of 

a high quality and broad range. This will be a venue which balances 

curatorial decisions with financial considerations to ensure the right 

mix of risk, profile, audience development and artistic merit. 

This will be a local venue with a national profile - a venue that serves 

its community while attracting international names and events. 

LIVE: 

Alongside its role as a leading venue for comedy, the auditorium will 

be able to host and present a broad range of work. 

This will vary from headline comedy acts recording a DVD to big name 

bands wanting a more intimate space to launch a stadium tour. It could be 

live streaming of major cultural or sporting events – think the Olympics or 

the Metropolitan Opera live from New York. It could be a radical hip-hop 

version of a Shakespeare or the final of a street dance competition; a 

talent show, a gospel choir or a recital from the Christie organ. 

Once a year, we aim to present an annual panto. Soho Theatre Artistic 

Director Steve Marmion has created critically acclaimed national pantos 

providing not to be missed family entertainment for the whole community 

and these will become a regular feature to compete with the very best. 

12 13 

Year round cinema 

and special themed 

one-off events... 

an education 

programme aimed 

at participation... 

and an annual 

panto with discounted 

tickets for local 

schools and families 

...HERE IN 

WALTHAMSTOW 

FILM: 

There will be three dedicated screens offering year round quality 

independent cinema. Alongside this, we have the opportunity to use the 

main auditorium to screen one-off’s of the biggest blockbusters, classics 

or film premieres in what will be one of London’s largest and most striking 

cinema venues. 

Working with Sadie Frost’s Blonde to Black production company, Curzon 

and others, means that we will be connected to the production of cinema 

and will placed to attract events such as film festivals, Secret Cinema 

(cinema and live performance), Q&As with directors and actors and work 

from local filmmakers. 

EDUCATION: 

Working with Soho Theatre and other leaders in the field means that we can 

create the innovative and high quality education programmes working with 

people in the borough and beyond. 

For many young people, this can be transformative, giving valuable life 

skills and a way into the opportunities and insights that access to arts and 

entertainment can offer.

ARCHITECTURAL 

PLANS 

Summary of the architectural proposal 

The brief from the client was very clear - to cherish the rich heritage of this 

wonderful building while also ensuring it can work exceptionally well as a 

contemporary entertainment venue. Integrating these two demands requires 

care and thought, but together will create a building that audiences will love. 

The Main Auditorium will be designed as a live performance venue and will be 

operated separately from the cinema and restaurant functions therefore the 

architectural proposal makes clear division between these two parts. 

For clarity, we will refer to the Main Auditorium and its support spaces as Part 

1 (indicated in red tones on the sketches) and street front part of the building, 

accommodating restaurants, cinemas, and educational spaces as Part 2 

(indicated in blue and green). 

Since the capacity of the former Granada cinema of about 2700 people would 

not be supportable (sanitary facilities, fire strategy), and the large distances 

from the stage (in the excess of 40 metres) are not desirable in the modern 

live performance context, the main auditorium will be reduced in size. 

The back of the stalls will be turned into a bar and support spaces while 

the upper circle will be divided off from the lower circle and converted into 

cinema screens and linked to Part 2 at the second floor level. This reduction in 

size will result in better acoustic qualities as well as shorter viewing distances. 

The reduced sized main auditorium will have a capacity of 1,000 people (stalls 

and lower circle combined) and will be a venue for live comedy, performance 

and special events. 

The space will also be suitable for special cinema screenings, such as live 

screenings of major cultural and sporting events. 

Permanent cinema and its related functions will be accommodated in the 

street front part of the building (Part 2). 

As part of the listed heritage fabric the front facade will be kept and 

refurbished and the existing Entrance Lobby, Foyers and Main Auditorium 

will be restored. 

A proposed new construction will bridge over the Lobby and Main Foyer to 

create a second floor level. Adjacent to the main auditorium building a new 

stair and lift core is proposed dedicated to the functions housed in the 

street front part of the building (Part 2). 

Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © McGuffin. 

Main auditorium of the former Granada Cinema © 

McGuffin. 

Ian Ritchie CBE 

The former Granada Cinema © Dusashenka 

14 15 

DESIGN 

TEAM 

Working with Ian Ritchie Architects Ltd are: 

Cost Consultant: Equals (Steve Bundy) 

Equals is an independent project and cost management consultancy 

formed by highly experienced construction industry professionals. 

Structural Engineer: WSP (Bill Price, David Lumsden) 

WSP is a large multidisciplinary company providing a full range of services 

to the property, transportation and the environmental sectors. 

Services Engineer: King Shaw Associates (Doug King) 

King Shaw Associates Consulting Engineers provide thoughtful 

engineering design for clients and architects wishing to build high quality, 

environmentally responsible buildings. 

Acoustic Engineers: Paul Gillieron Acoustic Design (Paul Gillieron) 

As one of the UK’s leading acoustic consultancies, PGAD have been 

responsible for the acoustic design of a large number of high quality 

auditoria with excellent acoustics, since 1984, specialising in the acoustic 

modelling of theatres, concert halls and cinemas. 

Theatre Specialist: FDA - Fisher Dachs Associates 

Theatre Planning and Design (Flip Tanner) 

Fisher Dachs Associates is one of the world’s leading theatre planning and 

design consultants. 

Heritage Architect Consultant: 

Donald Insall Associates (Cordula Zeidler) 

Donald Insall Associates is a firm of chartered architects, historic 

building and planning consultants with over fifty years experience in the 

conservation, repair and adaptation of historic buildings. 

Fire Engineer (01): International Fire Consultants Ltd - 

IFC Group (Paul Harris) 

International Fire Consultants Ltd (IFC) is a major force delivering high 

quality fire safety solutions. 

Building Surveyors: Goodman Mann Broomhall (Henry J. Watson) 

Goodman Mann Broomhall is a practice of Chartered Surveyors who 

provide specialised advice on commercial property in the fields of 

investment and professional services with an emphasis on building 

surveying and portfolio management.

Ground Floor Plan 

16

First Floor Plan 

18

Second Floor Plan 

20 21

Section AA 

22

Section BB 

24

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF 

THE ARCHITECTURAL PROPOSAL. 

Ground Floor (Part 1) 

Lobby [00.01] 

The existing Lobby will be refurbished in 

line with its 1930’s decor. 

Box Office [00.02] 

The former box office will be restored to 

its original function. 

Main Foyer [00.03] 

The main double height foyer will be 

restored / refurbished to its 1930’s 

glory. A new opening will be formed to 

enable access to a new lift which would 

provide wheelchair access to the stalls 

area. Forming of this opening is subject 

to English Heritage approval. 

Main Auditorium 

The size of the existing auditorium will 

be reduced to an approximate seating 

capacity of 740 in the Stalls and 

approximately 268 seats in the Lower 

Circle, totalling 1008 seats. 

The maximum population of the Main 

Auditorium is determined by the space 

available for sanitary facilities. The 

maximum population which the sanitary 

facilities can support is 1000 people. 

This is detailed below. 

The 1930’s interior will be restored 

with necessary updates to the interior 

as required. All alterations will require 

English Heritage approval. 

The existing Christie organ will be 

restored. 

Stalls [00.12] 

The Stalls will have a seating capacity 

of about 740. The seating is currently 

proposed to be fixed but options for 

making it (or part of it) removable are 

being investigated. 

Thrust Stage [00.13] 

We are proposing to expand the 

stage forward which will bring the 

performance closer to the audience. 

If the original organ pit still exists, this 

will have to be constructed without 

compromising it. 

Stage [00.14] 

Will be restored and redesigned as 

required and made larger. 

Proscenium wings [00.14 & 00.15] 

Will be restored and redesigned 

as required. Design options will be 

explored at the next stage. 

Bar and supporting areas [00.05] 

The adjoining bar will take most of the 

former back of the stalls area and be 

separated by acoustic lobbies from the 

stalls. This bar will be able to operate 

separately from the Main Auditorium. 

The maximum capacity this bar can 

support is approximately 650 persons 

(calculated by maximum safe occupancy 

rate of 0.36m2/p). 

WC group [00.06 - 00.08] 

The WC group currently sized to be able 

to serve up to 970 people (Calculated 

according to BS 6465). 

Ground Floor (Part 2) 

Cinema bar/cafe/restaurant [00.21] 

The cinema restaurant and bar will be 

located on the ground floor by the street 

front. The finished floor level is proposed 

to be at pavement level providing direct 

disabled access from the street. 

It will have a bar where cinema tickets 

can be purchased. 

The food for the restaurant will be 

prepared in the first floor kitchen which 

will be linked by a dumb waiter. 

The capacity of the restaurant will be 

between 60-100 people depending on 

the seating arrangement. The Bar area 

can serve up to 120 people. 

Staff and Support Spaces [00.23] 

The support areas for the first and 

ground floor restaurants will be 

located on the ground floor behind the 

restaurant. This area will be accessed 

through the service entrance and will 

consist of storage and staff welfare 

facilities. The support area will be linked 

to the first floor kitchen by an internal 

staircase which will serve as an escape 

route from the kitchen. 

New Stair Core [00.22] 

A new stair core is proposed to be 

located adjacent to the original main 

building. 

First Floor (Part 1) 

Upper Foyer [01.02] 

The Upper Foyer will be refurbished 

/ restored and could accommodate 

various functions. Could be used 

for exhibition space or a themed bar 

(related to cinema history), serving the 

audience of the lower circle therefore 

easing the pressure on the main bar at 

the back of the stalls. 

The Upper Foyer will be made 

accessible through a new lift 

accessed from the main foyer. There is 

also provision for an accessible WC. 

Lower Circle [01.06] 

The lower circle of the main 

auditorium will be reseated providing 

approximately 268 seats. 

WC group (at Upper Foyer) [01.03] 

This WC group can provide for 

approximately 160 people. Part of the 

lower circle will have to use the WC 

facilities at the Ground level. 

First floor (Part 2) 

The Rooms [01.11-01.12] 

Running alongside the existing front 

facade the two rooms could be used 

for a variety of functions. They can be 

run separately or be opened together 

and rented out for special functions 

such as weddings and corporate 

events. They could also serve the 

audience of the cinemas. 

The Rooms are directly accessible 

from the street but also through the 

new main stair core. (Disabled access 

is through the main stair core only.) 

One of these Rooms [01.11] is 

proposed to be a restaurant serving 

up to 100 diners. 

Both of these Rooms can 

accommodate bars which in addition 

to the ground floor restaurant/cafe 

could serve the audience of the 

cinema or could function as a pub. 

26 27 

The space above the Entrance Lobby 

and adjacent to the Main Foyer will 

be especially beautiful. The large 

existing windows of the front facade 

will be refurbished to provide an 

abundance of light. This natural light 

will be transferred to the Main Foyer 

by the introduction of a new glazed 

opening where the existing balcony 

used to be. This will be the only visual 

link between the two different parts 

of the building providing the diners 

and guests a view into the refurbished 

Main Foyer. 

Support Offices [01.17] 

The support offices are located on the 

first floor behind the Room(s) and will 

be dedicated to cinema/restaurant/ 

educational functions. They will have 

their own entrance from Hoe Street 

- using the existing fire escape stairs 

of the second floor. Disabled access 

through the main stair core and 

Room(s) only. 

WC group [01.14-01.16] 

The WC group on the first floor is 

dedicated to the ground floor and first 

floor restaurants and can serve up to 

260 people dining/drinking (this is the 

combined capacity of the ground floor 

cafe and the two rooms). One disabled 

toilet is provided. 

Kitchen [01.13] 

The kitchen is located on the first floor 

and will serve both the ground floor 

restaurant/bar and the first floor bar/ 

restaurant. The kitchen is linked to the 

ground floor support functions by an 

internal staircase. 

Second floor (Part 2) 

The second floor will accommodate 

3 cinema screens and educational 

spaces. 

Screen 01 and Screen 02 will be 

formed from the upper circle of 

the existing main auditorium. The 

structure and enclosing walls of 

these screens will be isolated from 

the existing structure to achieve the 

required acoustic insulation to enable 

simultaneous performance in the Main 

Auditorium and the cinema screens. 

Screen 03 will be located in the street 

front part of the building, on the new 

second floor. 

All three cinema screens will be 

served through the new main stair 

core. The former fire escape stairs will 

be restored and serve as fire escape 

from this level. 

Screen 01 [02.01] 

Formed from the upper circle of 

the original auditorium, this larger 

auditorium will have a target seating 

capacity of 130. A potential small stage 

could be installed which would enable 

the space to be used as small studio 

theatre/rehearsal space or auditorium 

for lectures and seminars (educational 

function). At the expense of seating 

capacity, the size of the stage can be 

increased. 

Screen 02 [02.02] 

Formed from the upper circle of 

the original auditorium, this smaller 

auditorium will have a target seating 

capacity of 80. A very small stage 

could be accommodated which 

will enable the space to be used as 

auditorium for lectures and seminars 

(educational function). At the expense 

of seating capacity, the size of the 

stage could be increased, making this 

space, too, suitable as a studio theatre/ 

rehearsal space. 

Screen 03 [02.03] 

Screen 03 is located in the street front 

part of the building. This auditorium will 

have a target seating capacity of 70. 

A potential small stage could be 

installed which would enable the space 

to be used as small studio theatre/ 

rehearsal space or auditorium for 

lectures and seminars (educational 

function). 

Educational space(s) [02.04] 

The educational space is proposed to 

be at the centre of the floor, adjacent 

to the Roof Terrace Cafe/Bar. The one 

large space can be divided into 2 or 4 

smaller (class) rooms if required. 

Roof Terrace Cafe/Bar [02.05] 

The Roof Terrace Cafe is proposed to 

be the heart of the Cinema/Education 

floor and envisaged to be in stark 

contrast with the dark, blacked out 

cinema spaces bringing a flood of light 

to the centre of the floor. 

With its envisaged openable glass roof 

it would be the hub of the educational 

floor throughout the year. Its bar 

would serve both the cinemas and the 

educational spaces, and function as a 

break-out space. 

IDEAS: 

The cafe could be dedicated to 

Alfred Hitchcock and the contemporary 

interiors could have a 30’s feel (elegant, 

black and white with streamlined forms). 

The back wall of the cafe could be 

used as a mini-projection screen 

making this space suitable for small 

scale special events. 

WC group [02.06-02.08] 

The WC group on the second floor 

is dedicated to the cinemas and the 

educational spaces. It is currently seized 

to serve the largest cinema screen of 

130 people plus 100 people in the 

educational space (it is assumed that the 

cinema screenings will be staggered: 

The WC facilities would not be able to 

serve the population of all three screens 

at the same time.) There is provision for a 

unisex accessible WC. 

Third floor 

The Third floor will accommodate 

any required projection rooms for the 

cinemas and plant rooms. The existing 

projection room will be refurbished. 

This level will be developed further 

at the next stage.

“East London would benefit from 

restoring the EMD Cinema back to it’s 

1930’s state of glory. Arts and culture 

are for everyone” 

Professor Green 

Musician 

“I spent many happy hours there as 

a child and find it extraordinary that 

its preservation as a cinema for local 

people is not a priority in the borough 

of Waltham Forest. With the recent 

demise of the dog track and now this 

news, it seems the protection of the 

area’s historic and cultural landmarks is 

in the wrong hands.” 

Alan Davies 

Actor and comedian 

“The Walthamstow cinema has a rare 

touch of glamour and it would be an 

absolute tragedy if the film lovers of 

east London were to be permanently 

deprived of this beautiful jewel of a 

cinema.” 

Meera Syal 

Actress and writer 

“It’s heartbreaking to hear such a 

beautiful, important historical building 

and centre of entertainment is being 

lost to the local community. I fully 

support the campaign to keep it open 

and provide film, music and the arts for 

generations to come.” 

Sir Mick Jagger 

Musician 

“The EMD Cinema was built to promote 

happiness, culture and entertainment 

for the benefit of the whole community. 

I fully support the campaign to save the 

cinema and share their wish to see it 

reopened as a flagship arts venue for 

east London”. 

Alain de Botton 

Writer and philosopher 

“We will realise that we have lost 

something wonderful and magical if this 

cinema goes and it will only slip away 

if we don’t raise our voices to stop that 

happening. I am an Epping boy and 

Walthamstow was my stomping ground. 

This is a great place and a great place 

to watch films. These grand cinemas 

are becoming rarer. They were the 

cathedrals of their age and still have a 

role to play”. 

Griff Rhys Jones 

Comedian and broadcaster 

“I offer 100% support against the 

vandalism that is being planned.” 

Tony Benn 

Politician and historian 

“At this exciting time in our history when 

east London is about to be revitalised, 

it would be crazy to turn our backs 

on such a magnificent venue. If not 

for our sakes, then for the sake of 

the next generation of film and music 

lovers, let’s ensure it is given the 

opportunity to reclaim its place as 

the hub of Walthamstow’s high-class 

entertainment.” 

Tony Robinson 

Actor and presenter 

28 29 

Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association 

‘Soho Theatre is all about 

the audience - and knowing 

what makes a great night out. 

We can’t wait to bring 

that to Walthamstow.’ 

Shappi Khorsandi 

Comedian and 

Soho Theatre board member

WHAT DO LOCAL 

PEOPLE WANT? 

The former Granada cinema 

occupies a central location 

in Walthamstow, close to the 

intersection of the two busiest 

shopping streets in the area. 

Earlier this year, over 140 

local business owners and 

managers gave statements 

in support of re-opening the 

cinema, demonstrating just how 

much local support exists. In 

addition to these testimonials 

Save Walthamstow Cinema has 

well over 5000 supporters on 

Facebook and the McGuffin 

film society enjoys widespread 

support. 

“The Waltham Forest Business Board 

represents 500 businesses throughout 

the borough of Waltham Forest bringing 

them together in a strategic forum to 

work in partnership with the Council 

to secure the economic future of the 

borough and the creation of jobs for the 

local community. 

We believe that a revamped cinema 

would give Hoe Street a new lease of 

life and act as a catalyst for regeneration. 

It would give a huge boost to the nighttime 

economy supporting many of the 

businesses in the local area. 

The Board fully supports the Waltham 

Forest Cinema Trust.” 

Michael Pelledri, 

Chair, Waltham Forest Business Board 

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema 

Trust because it would bring 

thousands of people into our 

area, boosting business. It would 

also make Hoe Street and central 

Walthamstow a nicer and safer place 

to be for our customers and our staff. 

We would use the cinema and our 

business would benefit from it.” 

Aydin Aktas, manager, 

Akdeniz Gida Pizari supermarket, 

147-149 Hoe Street E17 3AL 


Trust because we can see lots of 

people coming to Walthamstow area 

to the cinema so we will get some 

business. Moreover they can play 

some Asian movies for Asian people 

in Walthamstow. It would be good to 

be open very soon.” 

Frianki Paul, manager, Priya Maamalas 

restaurant, 256 Hoe Street E17 3AX 

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust 

because I am convinced that it will 

bring much-needed trade to the area.” 

John Obiri-Yeboah, D P Marks Chemist, 

220/222 High Street E17 7JH 


Trust because in an area that does 

not have many public amenities a 

cinema in the High Street would be a 

great boost to trade in this struggling 

market place!” 

D Forino, manager, Walthamstow Post Office, 

Central Library site, High Street E17 7JN 


Trust because there are not enough 

local cinemas and it would also 

help other small local businesses 

due to encouraging more people 

into the area.” 

Edward Housden, owner, Ashlins Natural Health, 

181 Hoe Street E17 3AP 


Trust because it will generate more 

people in the area, which would 

potentially increase footfall in our 

branch, thus improving our profits.” 

Gavin Reeves, manager, Co-op Bank, 

151-155 Hoe Street E17 3AN 


Trust because a revamped EMD 

cinema would help with the current 

lack of the night time economy in 

Walthamstow, revitalising a neglected 

part of the town centre. If done well it 

could attract people from outside the 

area and would reduce the income 

lost from local people who currently 

have no local facilities where they 

can spend their time (or money). It 

would give a lift to the other bars and 

restaurants already in the area and 

would also attract more shoppers to 

Walthamstow. The restored cinema 

would help the shops trading in the 

Mall and on the High Street, making 

the town centre more attractive to 

local businesses and drawing in 

better quality national retailers.” 

Alasdair Currie, General Manager, 

The Mall Walthamstow shopping centre, 

45 Selborne Road E17 7JR 


Trust because the cinema is and 

should be part of the community and 

will bring much to the area again! In 

terms of trade and it will make the 

area more attractive.” 

Adrian Sinclair, Spencers Property Services, 

169 Hoe Street E17 3AL 


Trust because books and films mix 

brilliantly and we look forward to the 

increased number of people coming 

to the area. It’s the heart of the 

community and good for business.” 

Fiona Kavanagh, manager, Waterstones 

booksellers, The Mall, 45 Selborne Walk E17 7JR 

30 31 


Trust because I believe it would 

revamp the area and attract people 

to Walthamstow. Consequently this 

will help local businesses with extra 

revenue flow. There is no cinema 

anywhere near to Walthamstow – 

there is a definite NEED.” 

Panikos Constantinou, owner, Ye Olde Rose and 

Crown Theatre Pub, 53-55 Hoe Street E17 4SA 


Trust because it’s going to attract 

more people to the area, which is 

going to help us boost our business.” 

Ziane Abdenour, The Barber Shop, 118 Hoe 

Street E17 4QR 


Trust because it would help 

regenerate the local area and also 

generate new business in local 

shops, besides the entertainment!” 

Victor Kantor, Henry Taylor Outfitters 

schoolwear, 119/121 Hoe Street E17 4RX 


Trust because it will bring more 

business to the area and also bring 

the borough out of the shadow of 

being deprived of any form of leisure 

and recreation and entertainment.” 

Bachis, KyBer Café, 150 Hoe Street E17 4QR 


Trust because it is one of the wellknown 

cinema halls in London. It 

has a history behind it. Keeping the 

cinema hall will help the community 

be economically and culturally more 

effective. It is also good for our 

business, as many of the people 

will come to our restaurant and eat. 

Therefore it is very effective for the 

Waltham Forest Council and the 

people living in Waltham Forest.” 

Syed Asad Haque, Dhaka Tandoori, 

103 Hoe Street E17 4SA 

“I support Waltham Forest Cinema Trust because 

it is and was once a very beautiful cinema and 

Walthamstow is lacking in this. Not only will it bring in 

business but culturally we need it.” 

Chris Gibson, manager, The Deli, 69 Orford Road E17 9NJ 


Trust because as a resident and 

business owner in Waltham Forest, 

a cinema could only benefit the 

community and the refurbishment of 

the old Granada would be ideal.” 

Bob King, owner, Forest Photographic, 

128-128a Hoe Street E17 4QR 

“I support Waltham Forest 

Cinema Trust because I think 

that the cinema is exactly what 

Walthamstow needs. It would be a 

fantastic boost for local businesses 

and would provide a cultural 

landmark for surrounding areas.” 

Dan O’Connor, manager, Eat 17 restaurant, 

28 Orford Road E17 9NJ 


Trust because it would be beneficial 

for the area. People around 

Walthamstow need a close-to-home 

cinema where they can spend quality 

time with family and friends!” 

Roger Carter & Flossie Parsons, owners, The 

Nags Head public house, 9 Orford Road E17 9LP 


Trust because it would increase 

business to my restaurant and radically 

support development in the area.” 

Kenan, Istanbul Restaurant, 

154 Hoe Street E17 4QH 


Trust because it would decrease crime 

in the area and improve our business.” 

Vardan Gevorgyan, Arbat Off Licence, 



Trust because a cinema is much 

needed in this area. Please note 

that the scaffolding has been taken 

down – wire above at the moment 

has been left in a terrible state of 

repair and is dangerous – debris 

falling through broken wire.” 

Mrs L Brooks, manager, Century 21 estate 

agents, 87 Hoe Street E17 4SA 16/4/12. 


Trust because I am a resident of 

Walthamstow and would like to have 

an entertaining area close to my 

house. It’s a good place to enjoy with 

your family.” 

Fatima Khalil, manager, Islamic Relief charity 

shop, 156 Hoe Street E17 4QH 


Trust because of its desire to restore 

and re-open the EMD cinema that 

once used to attract all film lovers 

from within and outside the locality. 

Moreover, the cinema would be a 

great place for our youth club to visit.” 

Musa Ballikaya, The Asian Centre Waltham 

Forest, 18a Orford Road E17 9LN


Trust because we want the cinema 

back to Walthamstow!” 

Serena Mazzotta, Le Delice café restaurant, 

114 Hoe Street E17 4QR 


Trust because I have run Health Works 

for ten years nearly. We opened as 

the cinema closed. Over the years it 

has become more and more derelict 

looking, which is offputting for my 

clientele. I also need space to hire 

for classes in general – we run many 

yoga, pilates, zumba, bellydancing, 

antenatal etc classes and we simply 

don’t have enough space. The cinema 

meeting rooms would be ideal for us. 

And Walthamstow deserves a vibrant 

arts centre.” 

Jo Redmond, owner, Health Works 

complementary health centre, 

111a Hoe Street E17 4RX 


Trust because it’s good for local 

businesses and local people to have 

a cinema for all to enjoy. It will help 

towards the local economy and help 

regenerate the area.” 

Brian Martindale, manager, The Goose 

public house, 264 Hoe Street E17 3AX 


Trust because it will benefit the 

local community and will give 

local residents chance to entertain 

themselves and families.” 

Tocin Arfam, Spicy Lounge, 

218 Hoe Street E17 3AY 


Trust because having lived here 

all my life, and having grown a 

business in the area, I have so many 

fond memories when growing up 

and having many nights out at this 

beautiful art deco cinema. I’d like 

nothing better than re-live those 

times, and know it would bring so 

much life and business back to the 

borough, which take it from me is 

sorely needed.” 

Janet M. Davidson, Scrolls and 

Shells cake shop, 102A Wood Street Indoor 

Market, Wood Street E17 3HX 


Trust because to use the cinema 

as a church would bring nothing 

to the community whatsoever, just 

congestion and parking problems. You 

just need to look at Shernhall Street, 

a narrow street with a high volume of 

traffic brought to a standstill when the 

church is open, or the Bell corner of 

Hoe Street when the place of worship 

is open between Tower Hamlets Road 

and Byron Road… 

“Just take a look at South Woodford, 

that cinema has been there for as 

long as I can remember as a child, the 

bars, restaurants, high end shops etc 

were not. They emerged to service the 

patrons of the cinema… Just think of 

the amount of new business it would 

bring to the area and most important 

of all how much revenue to the 

struggling local authority… 

“Would a church keep children off of 

the streets? No, but would a cinema? 

Definitely! There is a prime opportunity 

to give a huge boost to the area with a 

cinema, not to mention a huge rise in 

property prices, just look at the prices 

in South Woodford! This again means 

more people spending money on the 

upkeep and redevelopment of their 

homes, this again puts more money 

into the systems of local tradesmen/ 

builders etc.” 

Richard Maher, manager, Central Estate Agents, 

177-179 Hoe Street E17 3AP 


Trust because since a child I have 

so many memories of this iconic 

building dating back to the time when 

The Beatles were on stage. Once this 

art-deco building is destroyed its all 

over and living in this area all my life 

I know only too well that we badly 

need new business and new life in 

the area, this is a last ditch chance.” 

John Rowe, Caretaker, Wood Street Indoor 



Trust because with ever increasing 

difficulty small businesses find in 

this low economic time, a local well 

known cinema would encourage 

people from all walks of life, from 

surrounding areas, to come to 

Walthamstow and help small 

business survive and encourage 

growth. Let’s do something good for 

Walthamstow.” 

Mr A. Shaikh, owner, Vinn Dry Cleaners, 

304 Hoe Street E17 9QD 


Trust because this cinema hosted top 

bands in the 60s such as the Rolling 

Stones, Beatles and The Kinks. This 

is our past and should be saved.” 

Micky Norkett, owner, East London Sausage Co 

Butchers, 57 Orford Road E17 9NJ 

32 33 


Trust because the public in this 

area deserve to have a local cinema 

as elsewhere in London. It helps 

to hopefully stop the progress of 

terrifying no-go zone area in High 

Street in Walthamstow. It also may 

help to bring some blood to the 

business in the area.” 

A. Jilow, owner, Eastman Army Camp surplus, 

work & security wear, 52 High Street E17 7LD 


Trust because we need a cinema. 

There is no cinema in Walthamstow 

and therefore it’s a good thing. More 

people will come to the area and that 

will help my business. I live on the 

High Street too and will definitely go 

to the cinema.” 

Recep Hizal, manager, Cafe Riccos, 64 High 

Street E17 7DB 


Trust because we would really like 

a cinema in Walthamstow, because 

we live here and it would bring more 

customers to the area.” 

Mrs G. Dik, owner, Snowdrop Beauty & 

Hairdressing, 77 High Street E17 7DB 


Trust because I think a cinema would 

improve Walthamstow. I also live in 

the area. I would definitely go to the 


Mr G. Dik, owner, Deja Vu Cafe, 75A High Street 

E17 7DB 


Trust because I think it will benefit 

the area because we don’t have a 

cinema here. It needs a bit more than 

a cinema, but a cinema is a good 

start.” 

Carole Barron, manager, Robert Barron 

hairdresser salon, 81 High Street E17 7DB 


this cinema hosted top bands in the 60s such as the 

Rolling Stones, Beatles and The Kinks. This is our 

past and should be saved.” 

Micky Norkett, owner, East London Sausage Co Butchers, 



Trust because we need a cinema in 

Walthamstow. The building could be 

used as a cafe, bar, with food etc and 

to have art shows etc.” 

Mark Finamore, owner, Finamore retro & 

furniture restoration, 63 Orford Road E17 9HJ 


Trust because our community needs 

and deserves its own cinema, and 

a cinema will help draw business to 

Walthamstow. The cinema building 

is rightly listed for its famous 

interior. Not only for its architectural 

importance but The Beatles played 

there, as did other heritage musicians, 

and its history should be preserved 

for posterity.” 

Penny Fielding, owner, Penny Fielding Beautiful 

Interiors gallery, 34 Orford Road E17 9NJ 


Trust because it will improve the 

overall energy and feel of the High 

Street, will encourage new business 

to open due to new footfall and 

encourage surrounding communities 

to come together.” 

Andrew Goad, manager, Churchill Estate agents, 

141 Hoe Street E17 3AL 


Trust because we would like to have 

more night entertainment life in 


Kotsel Sen, Café Rendezvous, 61 High Street 

E17 7AD 


Trust because I supply soundtracks 

for local film-makers. These people 

tend to be 20-something ‘students’ 

and therefore have a potential future 

and would therefore bring long-term 

revenue to the local area.” 

Anthony J. Rega, owner, Tony Tunes 78rpm 

record specialist, Unit 3, Wood Street Indoor 



Trust because having the building 

back would benefit the area and have 

a cinema back in Walthamstow, plus 

it would bring back great memories 

for me as it was my local cinema as a 

child. Also having the attraction here 

would bring in more visitors which 

would improve revenue to local 

businesses and the community.” 

Martin Cleminson, owner, Martins Toys & games 

memorabilia, Unit 2, Wood Street Indoor Market, 

98 Wood Street E17 3HX 


Trust because personally, for my 

business, it would help me gain new 

business and keep money in the 

Walthamstow area. I am a journalist for 

national newspapers and magazines, 

and co-run a copywriting business for 

corporate clients. A re-opened EMD 

cinema would hugely boost local 

regeneration and have a domino effect 

on the whole local area. I currently 

find it impossible to meet with clients 

in Walthamstow because the short 

walk from tube station to my home 

office is so offputting to them. This 

results in me either losing business or 

meeting clients elsewhere – and if I 

do the latter then our money is spent 

away from the borough and I lose 

valuable working time. Converting the 

cinema into a church would not have 

the same regenerative effect on the 

local area and would do nothing to 

boost the local economy.” 

Caramel Quin, co-owner, Magic Number 

Creative, 37 Cleveland Park Avenue E17 7BP

“I support Waltham Forest 

Cinema Trust because it would 

reinvigorate the evening economy in 

Walthamstow in a multitude of ways. 

This can only be a good thing. In my 

opinion there exists an overwhelming 

demand for a cinema in the area. 

The social, cultural and financial 

rewards would be shared by all of the 

community. See the bigger picture!” 

Mr Francis Long, owner, Lot One Ten Antiques, 

78/78a Hoe Street E17 4PG 


Trust because it would be good for 

business. No cinema in the area. 

Good for children. A meeting place.” 

Mustafa Tosunlar, Five Star Fish Bar, 442 Forest 

Road E17 4PY 


Trust because Waltham Forest is the 

only borough in London that does not 

have a cinema and the magnificent 

EMD would be a cinema we could be 

proud of and attract evening trade to 

the area, which would benefit us as 

well as it would make Walthamstow 

a more attractive area for people to 

move to. Our customers are mainly 

home owners and culture lovers. We 

recently enquired about the empty 

corner shop unit within the complex 

and were told by the neighbouring 

shop that others had enquired and 

that the church had no interest in 

letting it out. It has now been empty 

for many years, which proves that the 

current owners have no interest in 

boosting local business.” 

Elaine McCloshey and Kirsten Schmidt, owners 

E17 Art House picture framers and print gallery, 

6-10 Church Hill E17 3RY 



culture and entertainment.” 

M. Hussain, Sai Fabric & mobile shop, 70 High 

Street E17 7LD 


Trust because I think we need a 

cinema in Walthamstow, because 

kids love watching films and I have to 

take my kids in the car to take them 

and some times take time off work.” 

Z Ahmed, Clean Stitch dry cleaners, 400 Forest 

Road E17 5JF 


Trust because it is an important 

need in the borough personally for 

my business. Parents are able to 

go to a cinema while children are in 

class. Children themselves see other 

filmmaking at first hand and then are 

able to use this in drama class.” 

Shenagh Govan, owner, Drama! children’s drama 

school/classes, 1a Jewel Road E17 4QU 


Trust because if more people visit the 

cinema it is more likely that people 

will be wandering around and they 

will be hungry so they might pop 

round for a dessert.” 

Ahmed Dedat, Jus-Desserts ice cream parlour, 

249 Hoe Street E17 9PT 


Trust because we would like to have 

more people in our coffee shop, we 

would like to take our children to the 

cinema to keep more people in the 

local area.” 

Rachid Mayache, Café Meds, 267 Hoe Street 

E17 9PT 


Trust because I believe having a 

cinema would bring about more 

business to the local area, which 

would benefit my business.” 

Asif Mahmood, owner, Flamin Steak Grill 

restaurant, 328 Hoe Street E17 9PX 


Trust because we need more things 

for people to do locally and I have 

good memories growing up and 

going to that cinema.” 

Samantha Davis, The Village Bakery 

and coffee shop, 71 Orford Road E17 9NJ 



business.” 

Javid Akhar, Clothing Care Dry Cleaner, 232 High 

Street E17 7JH 


Trust because it will be good for 

young people in the area. They need 

some entertainment.” 

Brendalyn Browne, Hair 2 Day Unisex Salon, 99 

High Street E17 7DB 


Trust because I think it will be good 

for everyone and good for my cab 

firm as it will bring more customers.” 

Sally Smith, High Street Cars, 12 Palmerston 

Road E17 6PD 


Trust because I think it will bring more 

people into the Waltham Forest area 

and I don’t have to go out for my own 

entertainment.” 

Saj, Ribbons Fabrics, 97 High Street E17 7DB 


Trust because we think it’s good for 

youngsters, and it will be good for 


Mr Christou, owner, Bonners Fish Bar, 144 

Northcote Road E17 7EB 

34 35 


Trust because cinema is needed and 

necessary as a social activity.” 

Hassan, Azrou Cafe, 88 High Street E17 7LD 


Trust because it will help regenerate 

the area, bringing people to 

Walthamstow and that’s good for 

business.” 

Laszlo Nagy, Golden Cake shop, 39-41 High 

Street E17 7AD 


Trust because I used this cinema 

when I was a kid and it was always a 

great place to go.” 

Wayne Prestedge, Lui Menswear, 84 High Street 

E17 7LD 


Trust because we need a cinema in 

Walthamstow and to make it more 

attractive for people to come to the 

area.” 

Mr. S. Patel, Gardners News & Post Office, 48 

High Street E17 7LD 


Trust because empty buildings are 

a blight – they should be occupied 

by proper companies. If the cinema 

was re-opened there would be 

somewhere for the youngsters to 

go, and it would keep money in the 

borough. The old Arcade site could 

be opened as a car park generating 

revenue for the town.” 

Stephen Phillips, Shack Menswear, 108 High 

Street E17 7JY 


because we think it’s good for youngsters, 

and it will be good for Walthamstow.” 

Mr Christou, owner, Bonners Fish Bar, 144 Northcote Road E17 7EB 


Trust because the resources are 

going out of the borough. There is 

absolutely no entertainment at all 

in the evening. We need to make 

Walthamstow an interesting place, 

need to attract more people from 

other boroughs here as we used to 

have the longest market in Europe, 

and need to gain that interest back!” 

A.F. Shan, Shanze beauty salon, 86A High 

Street E17 7LD 


Trust because we would really like 

more things for the community to do.” 

Mo Gallaccio, Trustee, The Mill Community 

Centre, 7-11 Coppermill Lane E17 7HA 


Trust because it’s for the local 

community. We do not have any 

cinemas for a 5 mile radius. It will 

give children a place to go out and 

families too. Local businesses will 

benefit from people going out locally.” 

Faruque Choudhury, Bengal Curry House 

restaurant, 24 St James Street E17 7PF 


Trust because the original art deco 

building should be for public use as a 

cinema, which is desperately needed 

for the locals!” 

Ian Leggatt, manager, Orford Saloon Tapas Bar, 



Trust because there is no cinema 

in close proximity and this would 

enhance the area and its appeal to 

outsiders.” 

Archie Campbell, Queens Arms public house, 42 

Orford Road E17 9NJ 


Trust because I think there is no 

cinema in the area. More people will 

come to the area and keep the local 

economy going.” 

Spiros Ragavelas, owner, Village Kitchen 

restaurant, 41 Orford Road E17 9NJ 


Trust because I believe it would 

benefit the area from any business 

point of view and also it would 

benefit locals and local children.” 

Jackie Jones, manager, The Bell public house, 

617 Forest Road E17 4NE 


Trust because I believe that more and 

more people will like the films. As 

they are going to the cinema it will 

bring us more business and benefit.” 

Yulin Yu, Lucky Star Chinese Takeaway, 64 Hoe 

Street E17 4PG 


Trust because I love films. I could 

take my kids to the cinema. Local 

businesses could profit. The council 

could benefit from it.” 

Joseph Paulos, Orange Newsagents, 84 Hoe 

Street E17 4QS 


Trust because I think when it’s open, 

lots of local people will come to see 

the movies. I like Bollywood and 

Hollywood movies.” 

Khurvam Butt, Afro Cosmetics, 115A High Street 

E17 7DB


Trust because as a woman who 

has chosen to set up and run my 

business, to raise a family here 

and play an active part in a vibrant 

Walthamstow community, I find it 

almost criminal that 10 years after 

making Walthamstow my home 

and my place of business that we 

still don’t have a cinema and that 

people have to travel outside of the 

borough to see films. Screen 17 do 

an admirable job but it’s just not 

enough for a growing community and 

their choice of films does not always 

reflect the cultural diversity of the 

borough. 

“The situation with the EMD cinema 

is frankly depressing. It reflects 

poorly on all involved in the long and 

sorry saga including the council, the 

church who purchased the building 

who appear to be using their position 

to leverage funds, and any other 

‘blocking’ stakeholders who clearly do 

not understand the level of support 

and passion that many residents 

and business owners have for an 

independent cinema. The battle 

for the cinema must be costing us 

taxpayers a sizeable amount in legal 

fees for the council alone. 

“Given the diversity of this community, 

we all lose out from the lack of an 

entertainment hub that doesn’t rely 

on the sale of alcohol, gambling, 

small children only or 18+ only 

entertainment. Is it right that 

Walthamstow is the only London 

borough without a cinema? 

“I can promise you that an independent 

cinema would be a sustainable and 

critical addition to Walthamstow’s 

day and night time economy. It would 

bring residents closer together by 

providing a new hub for entertainment 

as well as drawing in new people from 

outside of the borough. 

“I support the campaign 

wholeheartedly and wish to add my 

voice to a growing number of angry 

and frustrated business owners and 

residents.” 

Michelle Goodall, Online communications & 

social media consultant/trainer, 23 Chelmsford 

Rd E17 8NN 


Trust because we would welcome a 

local cinema and a live entertainment 

venue.” 

Mirunda Dumirejeu, La Dumitrescu Romanian 

Deli, 141 Wood Street E17 3LX 


Trust because I would like a local 

cinema and live entertainment space.” 

Pepe Christou, Brothers Fish Bar, 122 Wood 

Street E17 3HX 


because we welcome a local cinema 

and entertainment centre for EMD.” 

M Nareen, MN Shoes, 129 Wood Street E17 3LX 


Trust because I would prefer to have 

a ‘local’ not a big chain cinema 

where we could watch all the films 

that you don’t get to see usually. I 

also think it would increase public 

and local attention to this area, 

especially Walthamstow and bring 

more visitors and customers to local 

businesses.” 

Filiz Zenew, Market Cafe, 151 High Street E17 

7BX 


Trust because it’s good for local kids 

and our business and more people 

will come to the borough.” 

Mr Y. Ali, 4 Seasons shoes & handbags, 69 High 

Street E17 7DB 


Trust because the cinema should 

be kept open and we should have a 


Mrs Cooper & Mr Nicholls, L Manze pie & mash 

shop, 75 High Street E17 7LD 


Trust because if I had a cinema 

we can spend time there, for 

entertainment and very good for 

meeting with friends, and the 

business would be very good for 

people in the area.” 

Ahmat Akkaya, Fat Chef Cafe, 101 High Street 

E17 7DB 


Trust because we really need a 

cinema and to retain the character of 

the area.” 

J. McAndrew FBDO, New Era Optical opticians, 

114 High Street E17 7JY 


Trust because it would be better to 

be able to have a local cinema than 

having to leave the borough. It will 

bring more people to the area near 

to the market and therefore to our 

shops.” 

Flora Jebelean, Hush Ladies clothes shop, 109 

High Street E17 7DB 


Trust because this is the only cinema 

in Walthamstow. Therefore people 

still like to go out to see films.” 

M. Nadeem, Glamour household goods, 157 

High Street E17 5RW 


Trust because it’s good entertainment, 

lots more people can come to 

Walthamstow and in the village.” 

D. Gibson, manager, Trattoria La Ruga 

restaurant, 59 Orford Road E17 9NJ 

36 37 


Trust because it would make the High 

Street area busier and that should 

benefit businesses here like ours.” 

Huseyin, Pop In Cafe, 167 High Street E17 7BX 


Trust because the cinema is part of 

Waltham Forest’s history and one 

of the very few landmarks in the 

borough. It would also be a good 

solution as we have no local cinemas. 

At present it has been unused for 

some time.” 

Casey Parram, Tower Boots footwear, 2 Palace 

Parade, High Street E17 7BU 


Trust because as a community arts 

organisation, we strive to ensure 

that communities can access 

highest quality arts experiences and 

opportunities, and learn about local 

heritage. Walthamstow Cinema is a 

crucial part of our borough’s history 

and arts landscape. It is vital that it 

retains its purpose and is restored to 

become a centre for arts and culture 

to be enjoyed by the population of 

our borough, and beyond.” 

Liza Vallance, Artistic Director, Studio 3 Arts, 

The Malthouse Studios, 62-76 Abbey Road, 

Barking IG11 7BT 


Trust because it is a long distance 

travelling to the nearest cinema. If it 

re-opened I would go as it is not too 

far away from my house.” 

Mr Hamed, Market News newsagent, 227 High 

Street E17 7BH 


because it’s good entertainment, lots more people 

can come to Walthamstow and in the village.” 

D. Gibson, manager, Trattoria La Ruga restaurant, 



Trust because we need an arts centre 

and cinema complex.” 

Frances Basham, Tilt vintage fashion shop, 

Wood Street Indoor Market, Wood Street E17 

3HX 


Trust because I think it would 

improve the area and provide 

a much-needed leisure facility, 

plus bring people from outside of 

Walthamstow which is great!” 

Deborah Daniel, Craft Guerrilla craft workshops 

and designer maker, Unit 37 Wood Street Indoor 



Trust because the cinema would 

enhance local amenities in the 

borough. This would make the 

borough a more attractive place to live, 

work and shop. I would benefit as a 

business from this. I am also a local 

resident and would love to be able to 

walk to the cinema from my home.” 

Andy Dickson, The Chair Man chair and furniture 

revampers, Unit 42 Wood Street Indoor Market, 

Wood Street E17 3HX 


Trust because Walthamstow needs a 

cinema, somewhere for people to go 

and enjoy the arts etc.” 

J Gibbs, Nobby Lawtons Olde Footy Shop 

memorabilia shop, Unit 98 Wood Street Indoor 



Trust because there is nothing like 

this in the area. People want to have 

more attractions within the area, so 

as not to always go to central London 

for a wider range of attractions. It can 

only be a positive move forwards.” 

Kirstie Robinson, Just Can’t Help It clothes 

maker, Wood Street Indoor Market, Wood Street 

E17 3HX 


Trust because we need a cinema and 

it’s our heritage.” 

Michael Lane, Record Shop, Unit 98 Wood 

Street Indoor Market, Wood Street E17 3HX 


Trust because …my 18-year-old 

needs to go to the cinema. …with a 

great community-driven space the 

cinema would make Walthamstow 

great again. …a cinema would create 

jobs for local people. …so I can go to 

the cinema with my family. …people 

will stay living in Waltham Forest.” 

Denise Rawls, Strange Fruit greeting cards and 

stationery, 21 Stephenson Road E17 7LE 


Trust because it would encourage 

people to stay in the area and 

patronise the local businesses.” 

Jane Reed, Jady Jane’s Vintage Bandwagon 

vintage clothing, Wood Street Indoor Market, 

Wood Street E17 3HX 


Trust because there is no cinema 

in the Walthamstow area. We 

have to go far away to watch films. 

Children in the Walthamstow area 

are missing to watch good films. It 

is very important to have a cinema 

in Walthamstow for leisure and 

education. If there is a cinema in 

Walthamstow we get more business 

in this area.” 

B Rayindran, JR Print digital and litho printers, 

61 Hoe Street E17 4SA


Trust because I think that this idea is 

very helpful to my business because 

it’s going to attract more customers 

to our shop. It’s a very good idea and 

we support it from all our hearts.” 

Javed Jiqbal, Fresh “A” Licious coffee shop, 

152B Hoe Street E17 4QR 


Trust because I think it will have a 

good effect on our business and it 

is good for the community to have a 

local cinema, we do not need to go 

far away for entertainment.” 

Rashid Ahmed, Rashidsa barber shop, 124 Hoe 



Trust because I think it will bring more 

people to the road. At the moment 

the road is empty and it is a problem.” 

A A Ansuparajan, Arul Food & Wine, 120 Hoe 



Trust because it’s good for our 

business when cinema will be ready. 

We hope more people will come in 

our shop and we will be more busy. 

That’s why we support this Trust.” 

Ahsan Ul Zafar, Tasty Chicken N Pizza fast food, 

122 Hoe Street E17 4QR 


Trust because it can bring local 

resources and community together 

and give access to the Arts 

and support for the community. 

Entertainment is a needed part of all 

communities and this is a resource 

that the area is missing.” 

Neville King, Boomstick Media publisher, 22 

Erskine Road E17 6RY 


because it is for all of the community.” 

D Tailor, Forest Chemist pharmacy, 615 Forest 

Road E17 4PP 


Trust because it would bring more 

people to the area and make the 

building nicer.” 

Pardip Dass, Eggfree Cake Box bakery, 138 Hoe 



Trust because it would be lovely.” 

Elena, Tax Academy accountancy, 52 Hoe Street 

E17 4PG 


Trust because it’s a good thing for the 

area and it’s about time that we had 

a cinema, We approve of this and 

support it 1000%.” 

Bob, MBA Cars mini cabs, 50-52 Hoe Street E17 

4PG 


Trust because it will bring business 

into the area.” 

Alan Costales, Ronald Brown opticians, 212 Hoe 

Street E17 3AY 


Trust because being able to enjoy 

cinema in their local area should be 

an entitlement for all young people. As 

Deputy Headteacher at Walthamstow 

School for Girls, I am regularly asked 

by our students why we do not have 

a local cinema in Walthamstow, 

something which they feel would 

be a huge benefit to everyone in the 

community. They point out that there 

are very few social opportunities for 

them and that to have a cinema would 

serve as a focal point for bringing 

together the many diverse strands of 

our wonderful community.” 

Nigel Straker, Deputy Headteacher, Walthamstow 

School for Girls secondary community school, 

Church Hill E17 9RZ 

“As a resident of Walthamstow working 

as an independent architectural 

historian (as Archangel Heritage), I 

have a passion to preserve and 

protect our built environment. I am 

both saddened and dismayed by the 

proposals of the UCKG to convert the 

Grade II* listed former EMD cinema, 

Hoe Street, Walthamstow for use as 

a church. 

“Within the last hundred years or 

so, Walthamstow has lost many 

significant historic buildings which 

formed part of the development and 

history of Walthamstow, and it is vital 

that remaining historic buildings be 

preserved and restored for today’s 

community to enjoy. Walthamstow 

has a rich and largely forgotten 

cinematic history, which has played 

an important international role. 

Restoration and utilisation of this 

building for its original purpose would 

be a continuation of this history, and 

will serve as a living testament to this 

illustrious past. 

“It is widely acknowledged that the 

borough would greatly benefit from 

having a cinema, and would be an 

economic and social asset to the 

local area. Indeed, the building is still 

viable as a cinema, as highlighted in 

the council-commissioned Locum 

report, while several offers to buy and 

run it as one have been made since its 

closure by the UCKG. The Waltham 

Forest Cinema Trust has commercially 

viable plans and funding sources 

in place to buy, restore and operate 

the building without any expense 

to the council. This is an excellent 

opportunity to make the building 

accessible to the local community. 

38 39 

“Planning guidance recommends that 

the first option for a listed building 

is for it to be used in the purpose for 

which it was designed – in this case 

as cinema and live entertainment 

venue. Conversion to church use 

will remove north east London’s 

largest and most elaborate cinema 

auditorium – a treasured asset of 

national importance – from the 

public domain forever; this would 

be lamentable. For example, the 

UCKG’s proposal includes the 

holding of four church services every 

day, preventing the wider community 

from accessing the majority of the 

building at any time.” 

Karen Averby, Archangel Heritage independent 

architectural historian, Flat 3, 273 Hoe Street 

E17 9PT 


Trust because children and families 

in Waltham Forest should be able 

to enjoy cinema at a local venue, 

as families in every other London 

borough do. The EMD cinema is 

a treasured local landmark which 

deserves to be used by local people 

for cultural and social enjoyment as 

soon as possible.” 

Rhiannon Finamore, Community Governor, 

Henry Maynard Junior School, Addison Road 

E17 9LT 


Trust because it would potentially 

benefit the students at our school. 

The Trust would allow our students 

to access film and other performing 

arts enrichment activities that are 

currently unavailable to them.” 

Michael Burstow, Head of Performing Arts, 

Walthamstow School for Girls secondary 

community school, Church Hill E17 9RZ 


Trust because it will encourage more 

people in the vicinity. Which will help 

businesses in Waltham Forest.” 

Fiza, Divine hairdressers, 341 Hoe Street E17 

9BD 


because it is for all of the community.” 

D Tailor, Forest Chemist pharmacy, 615 Forest Road E17 4PP 

“We support Waltham Forest Cinema 

Trust because a cinema is an integral 

part of a vibrant community. Without 

one, E17 is impoverished. The 

scope for economic development 

is significant and the opportunity to 

bring this lovely old building and its 

environs back to life should not be 

missed.” 

I Chapman & S Moore, joint owners, 

Walthamstow Osteopaths Ltd, 72 St Mary Road 

E17 9RE 


Trust because there is a lack of 

mainstream cultural provision 

in the borough and in particular 

Walthamstow town centre. The plans 

would create a night time economy 

and further help and support local 

creative industries, bringing jobs and 

wealth generation to the area. Local 

people would have the opportunity 

of a range of local cultural amenities. 

Local businesses such as restaurants, 

taxi companies and bars will be 

supported as we have demonstrated 

over the last year of trading.” 

Nick Bertram and Ian Simpson, owners, 

Screen17 cinema operator, Orford House, 73 

Orford Road, E17 9QR 


Trust because we are a design 

agency based in Hatherley Mews, 

right next to the cinema. We have 

clients in the UK and Europe. The 

current lack of regeneration in 

central Walthamstow, an area which 

our visitors arriving at Walthamstow 

Central have to traverse to reach our 

offices, makes us loath to invite and 

entertain clients here. Regrettably 

we are forced to use Islington and 

central London instead. A cinema 

with the facilities proposed by the 

Trust would be the much needed 

catalyst that changes the way we 

feel about and use the area, making 

us confident to invite clients and 

where we happily encourage them 

and our staff to spend money 

not only in the cinema but in 

surrounding bars and restaurants. 

Like many we are here because of 

Walthamstow’s excellent transport 

links; but a restored cinema/ 

entertainment facility of this quality 

would not only greatly benefit us 

and existing businesses, but would 

also bring new quality businesses to 

the area and also provide a greater 

range of opportunities.” 

John Norman, co-owner, Academy Design 

Partners, Suite 202, Hiltongrove Business 

Centre, Hatherley Mews E17 4QP 


Trust because the borough needs a 

cultural focus, and the EMD cinema 

could really bring that. Walthamstow 

has a thriving creative sector, having 

somewhere that people could meet 

would really add a huge amount of 

value to the area.” 

Michael C Place, co-owner/director, Build 

creative design studio, Unit 15, 12-15 Hatherley 

Mews E17 4QP 


because as a non-Waltham Forest 

resident, but as someone who works 

in the area, there is little incentive for 

me to stay in the area beyond working 

hours; I believe the regeneration and 

benefit to the local community the 

cinema’s renovation and restoration 

would bring can change that! Not only 

is the building of great historical and 

cultural significance, it has the potential 

to provide Walthamstow with a thriving 

and bustling centre, a hub and a heart.” 

Sophie James, Build creative design studio, Unit 

15, 12-15 Hatherley Mews E17 4QP


Trust because the children and young 

people of Walthamstow desperately 

need a local cinema to entertain, 

inspire and challenge them. They are 

missing out on an important cultural 

and social activity enjoyed by young 

people in every other London borough.” 

Rhiannon Finamore, Community Liaison 

Co-ordinator, Walthamstow School for Girls 

secondary community school, Church Hill E17 9RZ 


Trust because Walthamstow is in 

desperate need of quality entertainment 

and cultural facilities. As a creative 

business with international clients 

(who do visit us!) it matters to us how 

the area is perceived; currently there 

are few places in the area that we can 

use for meetings, social or business. 

Having the cinema next door restored 

to its former glory and offering firstclass 

facilities would be an amazing 

boost, to us as a business and for 

the area in general. And once a good 

thing happens with such a visible and 

valuable improvement to the area, other 

quality businesses and so regeneration 

typically follows. I would really like to 

see people’s perceptions of the area 

change for the better and for local 

people to be proud of the town once 

more; the restoration of the cinema 

would be an invaluable step towards 

this.” 

Nicky Place, co-owner/director, Build creative 

design studio, Unit 15, 12-15 Hatherley Mews 

E17 4QP 


Trust because we need a cinema. 

This is the first place I saw a film 

when I was six years old, and I used 

to go there regularly in my early years. 

It’s a shame to see it rotting away 

when there are kids with nothing to 

do on the streets. The area needs a 

cinema!” 

Martin Lewis, owner, Salvage Electrical, 82 Hoe 

Street E17 4PG 


Trust because it will give children a 

place to go with their families who 

may have been put off by having to 

travel, because it will give children a 

sense of pride in their borough, and 

because it would provide a venue 

for local children’s arts, drama and 

dance groups to perform.” 

Mr A Morris, learning mentor, Greenleaf Primary 

School, Greenleaf Road E17 6QW 


Trust because my restaurant is near 

the cinema. If there is a cinema it 

means more people will be walking 

around and it will affect my business. I 

will get more customers. For example, 

in Wood Green when they opened 

the main cinema all businesses got 

more busy and also they opened more 

new businesses. Already my business 

is not good, if it continues without a 

cinema then maybe I will close.” 

Kenan Duman, Istanbul Restaurant, 154 Hoe 

Street E17 4QH 


because I’d increase my daily sales and 

I have more customers because of the 

cinema. I have a very good business. I 

keep the shop because of cinema. If 

there is no cinema then no point to keep 

shop open.” 

Mr Rhas Aurlappa, Food & Wine off licence, 168 

Hoe Street E17 4QH 


because the town centre is in urgent 

need of regeneration. At present the 

only focus is the shopping centre and 

market, which do not function outside 

business hours. This is compounded 

by the council’s demolition of the 

prominent Arcade buildings without 

securing development, followed by their 

abject failure to secure any new use 

for this site despite evident demand. 

Instead we have an attractive but rather 

pointless void which generates no 

activity, employment, rates or Council 

Tax income. 

“My view is that rather than restriction to a 

cinema, the building should have broader 

use as an arts centre which will give a 

focus to the town centre and help the 

area compete with surrounding centres.” 

Benjamin Tobin, Chairman, Strettons chartered 

surveyors, 189-203 Hoe Street E17 3SZ 


Trust because I have been running 

my business in Walthamstow for over 

ten years and I have witnessed how 

Walthamstow has developed into a 

multicultural area. Having a cinema 

in Walthamstow will attract a variety 

of people. Walthamstow already has 

excellent public transport links, which 

makes it easy to get into. I have seen 

how the opening of theatre venue down 

the road has changed the area. Having 

a cinema will improve it even more.” 

El Hadi, L’Hirrondelle Coffee Shop, 160 Hoe 


40 41 


Trust because they need to show 

that local businesses really want a 

central place that encourages local 

people to stay in the town and shop/ 

eat/drink locally. And also a cinema 

would attract many people from other 

surrounding areas as a destination for 

entertainment. Not just a cinema but 

a meeting place for groups to use as 

well.” 

Carolyn Abbott, E17 Designers community craft 

group, 105 Farnan Avenue E17 4NH 


Trust because I want cinema here. It 

will give me more benefit and more 

customers. The church will bring a 

parking problem and no customers. 

The community and the business 

need the cinema. It will be better for 

the children and more safe for the 

area. At the moment children have 

nowhere to go.” 

Ming Feng Li, Peking Chef Chinese restaurant, 



Trust because it would certainly bring 

a lot more people in the area which 

would create extra business for 

small businesses like ourselves. The 

cinema would also change nightlife 

of the area which is at present quite 

dull and scary place to find yourself 

at night.” 

Ivan Spanec, Daisy’s coffee shop, 176 Hoe 



it is a great opportunity to revive Walthamstow 

night life. We need a local cinema for our children 

and public in general.” 

Frank Escuderu, Grove Cafe café and bar, 21 Hatherley Mews E17 4QP 


Trust because we need to create 

reasons for people to visit 

Walthamstow – a cinema would 

support this.” 

Barry Grier, XL Hair Design, 76 St Mary Road 

E17 9RE 


Trust because The Victoria is one 

of the remaining businesses that 

are still trading within the old EMD 

cinema. Unfortunately, we have spent 

the last nine years doing so in what 

appears to be a derelict building, with 

no regard from the UCKG. 

“The majority of people are aware that 

the pub trade has suffered of late and 

most of the pubs in the area have 

been refurbished in an attempt to 

increase their trade. We have been 

unable to do this as the business has 

been shrouded in uncertainty. 

“I support the Waltham Forest Cinema 

Trust as I feel that the area needs new 

business to create jobs and bring 

revenue into the area. Walthamstow 

has fantastic transport links, the 

argument for the need for parking is 

irrelevant. 

“This building could be the grand 

focal point of central Walthamstow, 

the hub of the community. It would 

be a great opportunity, for us as 

a business, to work alongside 

the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust 

to create a venue that would 

complement their plans. Hoping for 

an exciting future.” 

Catrin Roberts, manager, The Victoria public 

house, 186 Hoe Street E17 4QL 


Trust because it is a great opportunity 

to revive Walthamstow night life. We 

need a local cinema for our children 

and public in general.” 

Frank Escuderu, Grove Cafe café and bar, 21 

Hatherley Mews E17 4QP 


Trust because it would give me more 

business as cinema is good for 

business.” 

Ruban, Abina Supermarket off licence, 132 Hoe 



Trust because a cinema is needed in 

the area.” 

Ernest Obene, Kos Mini Market Afro-Caribbean 

food & sundries, 5 Central Parade E17 4RT 


Trust because we support to bring 

back the cinema as soon as possible 

for our local community and to 

double up and improve our business. 

We fully support any more campaigns 

– bring back the cinema.” 

AT, manager, VM Supermarket, 4 Central Parade 

E17 4RT 


Trust because it will improve the 

community and my business.” 

Sam Soman, Royal Salon hairdresser, 3A 

Central Parade E17 4RT 


Trust because it will improve the area 

– we don’t like the unused building 

and it will attract more customers for 

us.” 

Georgeta Badea, 1 December Ltd grocery shop, 



Trust because it’s vital to the 

community, bringing all nations 

together using film.” 

G Roberts, 100% Hair Studio, 129 Hoe Street 

E17 4RX

‘I have long been a supporter of the 

EMD cinema – it is an iconic feature 

in Walthamstow with a rich history. 

I understand that the Waltham Forest 

Cinema Trust are developing plans 

with the aim of restoring the cinema 

and I am fully in support of this.’ 

Iain Duncan Smith 

MP for Chingford and Woodford Green 

‘The Waltham Forest Cinema Trust 

proposal could make this building a real 

jewel in our town centre for generations to 

come. Not only will it bring much needed 

evening entertainment to Walthamstow 

which can be enjoyed by all the community, 

but the jobs if will offer and investment it 

will clearly generate in the surrounding area 

as well will mean its benefits will be felt far 

and wide. It has widespread support from 

residents of many and all backgrounds 

as well as our local business community 

who see the commercial and economic 

advantages of this bid and as the local MP 

I will do all I can to help it be successful 

too. This building has a fantastic heritage 

that the Trust proposal honours, and if the 

Trust is successful in its bid to restore and 

run this venue it represent real hope for a 

bright future for our community too.’ 

Stella Creasy 

MP for Walthamstow 

42 43 

FINANCE AND 

SUSTAINABILITY 

This vision is based on a social enterprise model which, in this case, means that the venue will be owned by a 

charitable trust with the activities and programme commercially run to generate income. It will not be seeking any 

public funding or subsidy towards running costs and must therefore generate profits to be sustainable. 

After the cost of the activities, profits will be owned by the charity and will be allocated towards ensuring the long 

term future of the building and funding education and audience development work. 

There are two key areas, ongoing revenue projections and capital costs. 

Revenue 

Based on the business model of cinema, live comedy and performance, eating and drinking, the Trust has 

commissioned a panel of independent experts to create a detailed business plan and to test the initial 

assumptions. 

These are not included here but can be discussed as appropriate and upon request. By partnering with high 

quality organisations, the venue can both reduce its overheads and extend its reach to attract the very best 

performers and programme content. 

The plans have been phased to show Phase 1, refurbishment of existing auditorium, and Phase 2 additional new 

build to include new cinema screens, restaurant and Education space. Phase 1 generates a turnover of £700k 

with surplus of £196k for financing costs and profit; Phase 2 gives £1.4m turnover and a surplus of £650k 

towards financing and profit. 

Capital 

The capital costs of this project are estimated at approximately £12m. This is based on comparisons with similar 

projects and professional advice on the architectural plans. They assume a purchase of the building at an 

estimated valuation to be determined by the District Surveyor. 

The advantage of a social enterprise model, allied with the strength of the vision and the architectural merit of the 

building, enables us to access both charitable fundraising and commercial finance. 

Waltham Forest becomes a priority area for the Heritage Lottery Fund in 2013 and we are in discussion with them 

as well as some key charitable foundations and major arts patrons. In addition to these major grants, we shall 

undertake a professionally run fundraising campaign utilising the vast experience and contacts within the team. 

The balance of the capital budget will come from commercial financing which the revenue projections are able to 

support. 

As a general indication as to the health of the market overall, live performance venues such as Hammersmith Apollo 

and Koko have recently exchanged hands for considerable sums, cinema groups have been reporting record 

attendances and comedy has never been more popular on our TV screens and in venues up and down the country.

44 

Foyer of the former Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association Circle of the main auditorium of the Granada Cinema © Cinema Theatre Association 

‘As an English Heritage Champion I am 

a passionate supporter of the Waltham 

Forest Cinema Trust and the Save 

Walthamstow Cinema Campaign. I 

am committed to seeing this fabulous 

building becoming an entertainment hub 

for the community once again. As one 

of the last remaining cinemas to have an 

art deco interior designed by the great 

Theodore Komisarjevsky, the cinema is 

big part of Walthamstow’s heritage. I am 

committed to seeing that it is a big part 

of Walthamstow’s future too.’ 

Jeanette Arnold 

GLA member for Waltham Forest 

CONTACT DETAILS 

For press enquiries please contact 

Amy Belson 

AmyBelson@sohotheatre.com 

020 7478 0142 

For other enquiries please contact 

Rose Abderabbani 

Rose@sohotheatre.com 

020 7478 0127

A 2012 illustration titled 'The EMD / Granada Cinema Walthamstow' by Ant Baena

Walthamstow cinema vision v18 120912

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