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Restoration work begins on historic bombed cinema in Hull

Work is currently underway to restore a derelict Grade II listed cinema in Hull.

The National Picture Theatre on Beverley Road, still bearing the scars of a Second World War bombing, is being given a new lease of life.

The cinema was the ‘last remaining civilian building damaged by a bomb’ from that period and was given the status of a listed building in 2007 because of its significance.

The cinema had 1,050 seats and a balcony, was long and narrow and opened on December 23, 1914.

Local contractor Hobson and Porter are carrying out restoration work on the site, thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Hull City Council and the National Civilian World War II Memorial Trust (NCWW2MT).

Work to preserve the site for future generations includes replacing historic windows, stabilising and restoring the red brick facade and installing new lighting.

The open space where the auditorium once stood is being used to create a flexible educational and community events area and war memorial, where visitors can learn about civilian life during World War II.

The National Civilian World War II Memorial Trust (NCWW2MT) has long been committed to this project. They are keen to show the impact of the Second World War on the people of Hull and how this site reflects the extent to which Britain’s second most bombed city was affected.

Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for Culture and Leisure, said: “I am delighted to see work begin on the site. Once complete, visitors will be able to enter the building safely for the first time since its destruction in the Second World War.

“There are so many stories at the National Picture Theatre that are of national importance and it’s fantastic to have the opportunity to give it the attention it deserves.

“I would like to thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for recognising the importance of this project and the local community for their continued support, now and in the future.

“I look forward to seeing the progress of the restoration.”

Richard Hunter, managing director of Hobson and Porter, said: “Having been based in Hull since 1971, we have seen the cinema deteriorate to such a poor state and are extremely proud to have been chosen to restore such an important historic landmark in the city.

“Over the past few years we have been proud to have worked with Hull City Council on a number of heritage projects across the city, including the repurposing of the iconic Guildhall Time Ball, the refurbishment of the Beverley Road Baths and the repurposing of the former city archives at 79 Lowgate.”

Helen Featherstone, Director, England North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It is very exciting to see work get underway on the National Picture Theatre. This project will not only restore and preserve the heritage building for future generations, it will also connect visitors from far and wide with its unique story.

“We are very proud that, thanks to National Lottery players, the Heritage Fund is able to support multiple projects in Hull which, like this one, contribute to the city’s ongoing heritage-led cultural renaissance.”

The cinema, built in 1914 by architects Runton and Barry for the De-Luxe Theatre Company, was badly damaged in a Luftwaffe air raid on 18 March 1941. There were more than 150 people inside at the time, but no-one was killed or seriously injured.

Hull was one of the cities in the country hardest hit by the Blitz, suffering air raids for longer than any other place in Britain.

Once the restoration is complete, the cinema’s history will be told and it will become an educational facility and a place to remember loved ones. The restoration program is expected to last approximately five months.

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