Independent Cinema Plan Needs Public Support

An entrepreneur is seeking the support of Guildford’s

film-lovers in his quest to open an independent cinema in the town.

Mark Gudgin has been struggling for over a year to convince

Guildford Borough Council (GBC) that the building at 170 High Street is the

perfect site for his proposed ‘Picture Palace’. However, his attempts to acquire

the lease have been hampered by indecision on the part of

the council.

GBC originally decided to sell the lease for number 170 to

an art exhibition company. When this plan came to nothing, they considered

relocating the town’s tourist office and Guildford House Gallery to the

building. However, in July of this year they opted against such a move.

Mark is now crossing his fingers that the time is finally

right for the council to give serious consideration to his plans, but needs

proof of investment and public support in order to convince them that it is a

viable proposition.

He needs people in Guildford who would use such a cinema to

write to him explaining why they think it would be a good idea, providing him

with statements which he could then submit as part of his business proposal.

A previous petition submitted by Mark attracted the

signatures of over 600 supporters.

His plan is for the Picture Palace to screen an eclectic mix

of movies, ranging from world and independent cinema to mainstream

blockbusters. Cinemagoers would also be able to relax pre and post-movie in a

stylish cafe and bar.

Speaking to the GetSurrey

website, Mark said: “In the past I have drafted letters for people to cut and paste but I’m

afraid that this time it will have to come from individuals as they will have a

greater impact this way.’

“It doesn’t need to be an essay, just a passionate plea from the heart.

We are doing all that we can to make this dream a reality and so that all your

help and support will be rewarded down the line with a fantastic cinema worthy

of the good people of Guildford.”

If you would like to lend your support to Mark’s campaign, drop him an

email at mark_gudgin@btinternet.com.

In the meantime, Mark will be running film nights at the Guildford

Institue in Ward Street from September 16th.

What are your thoughts on Mark's plans?