An iconic Wiltshire cinema is set to open its doors to the public for the first time in almost two years.
The Palace Cinema in Devizes, which has stood in Market Place for over a century, has been undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment for three years after being purchased by Adam Cunard and Picturedrome Cinemas in 2019.
The last time the public had access to the venue was for one night only to view the progress of these works in November 2021.
But now locals will have the chance to set foot in The Palace again when it opens its doors between noon and 4pm on Devizes Heritage Open Day, on Saturday, September 16.
The one-day event will give Devizes residents the opportunity to “see how work is progressing” in the historic venue.
Phillipa Morgan, the secretary of the Trust for Devizes, said: “We thought it would be good to persuade the owners to allow people in because there has been a lot of talk in town about when it will reopen.
“I was really excited they were prepared to do it and a lot of people have expressed an interest so I think it will be a very popular event.”
Despite the milestone, Picturedrome Cinemas are yet to announce an expected reopening date for The Palace.
But Mrs Morgan is hopeful their willingness to update locals means the future is bright.
She added: “Because of the pandemic there was a long period where not much happened and it’s been slow and steady.
“It’s nice to see they’re willing to get it done and hopefully we can look forward to a grand opening.
“It would be nice to have a cinema in town so people don’t have to journey to Trowbridge or Swindon.”
In 2019 Mr Cunard promised a full makeover and “excellent value” for customers, before lodging a planning application to add a second storey to host live acts.
At the time of writing no decision has been made on this proposal, despite being submitted in March 2022, with the council previously attributing the delay to plans not being received on time.
The heritage open day, which takes place in towns across the country, will see a range of buildings open to the public.
This includes the “spooky” Devizes Town Lock-up, The Masonic Hall, St John’s Church, and free entry to the Wiltshire Museum.
Entry to The Palace is free with no booking required.
The venue has ramped disabled access, but requirements must be communicated in advance.
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