New cinema plan revealed (From Free Press Series)

New cinema plan revealed

THE market hall in Abergavenny could be transformed into a cinema twice a week under new proposals put forward yesterday.

A campaign is growing for the town to have its own cinema but supporters have so far been frustrated as neither a developer nor Monmouthshire County Council has come up with the estimated £1 million to carry out the project.

Studies have been carried out to assess the suitability of various buildings in the town for a cinema but the reality is that it would be years rather than months before a permenant cinema is created.

Now Dale Roberts, area manager for the council, and his team have devised a Plan B and they are seeking a £5,000 grant from the Bryn y Cwn Committee to help make it happen.

He told the Free Press: "Our proposal would provide a black box made out of theatrical drapes or curtains which would be winched down from the roof space in the hall which is big enough to hold 100 people."

A six metre wide screen, DVD and top quality digital projector, together with surround sound speakers would complete the package.

He added: "An added bonus is that the projecter and sound equipment could also be used in village halls and would be ideal for events such as Christmas Ice Fair and maybe even at the Food Festival."

Mr Roberts admitted that asking for a £5,000 grant was a big commitment - the committee has an annual budget on just £15,000 - but he believes the cinema plan would be a huge boost to young and old people alike.

If the grant was approved, donations or sponsorship to the tune of up to £4,000 would still be needed although talks have begun with businesses around Abergavenny to try to strike a deal.