Work begins to restore historic bombed cinema
‘TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GIVE IT THE ATTENTION IT DESERVES IS FANTASTIC’
THE long-awaited restoration of Hull’s historic Grade II listed National Picture Theatre has started.
Situated on Beverley Road, the cinema is a poignant reminder of the city’s wartime past, still bearing the damage from a World War Two bombing.
Recognised for its historical importance, the building was awarded Grade II listed status in 2007 as the “last surviving civilian bomb-damaged building” from that era.
Local firm Hobson and Porter have been tasked with the restoration, supported by funds from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Hull City Council, and the National Civilian World War II Memorial Trust (NCWW2MT).
The extensive restoration plans include replacing windows true to the period, stabilising and refurbishing the distinctive red brick façade, and installing new lighting systems.
In place of the former auditorium, there will be a versatile space designed for educational purposes and community events, as well as a war memorial.
This area will serve as a testament to the experiences of civilians during the Second World War.
Culture and Leisure portfolio holder, Councillor Rob Pritchard, was thrilled with the development as he said: “I am delighted to see work starting on site.
“Once complete it will, for the first time since it was destroyed in World War II, enable visitors to access the building safely.
“There are so many stories within the National Picture Theatre that are of national importance, and to have the opportunity to give it the attention it deserves is fantastic.
“I would like to thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for recognising the significance of this project and the local community for their continued support now and going forward.
“I am looking forward to seeing the restoration progress.”
Hobson & Porter’s managing director, Richard Hunter, revealed his pride in the project saying:
“Having been based in Hull since 1971, we have seen the cinema sadly fall into a sorry state and feel hugely proud to have been chosen to restore such a significant, historic landmark in the city.
“In recent years we are proud to have worked with Hull City Council on a number of heritage projects in the city including the recommissioning of the iconic Guildhall time ball, the refurbishment of 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, remarked: “It’s very exciting to see work on the National Picture Theatre get underway.
“This project will not only restore and preserve the heritage building for future generations, it will also connect visitors from near and far with its unique story.
“We’re very proud that, thanks to National Lottery players, the Heritage Fund is able to support multiple projects in Hull that, like this one, are contributing to the city’s ongoing, heritage-led, cultural renaissance.”
Originally opening its doors to moviegoers on December 23, 1914, the cinema boasted 1,050 seats, it suffered severe damage during a Luftwaffe air raid on 18 March 1941.
Despite more than 150 individuals being present at the time of the attack, thankfully, there were no fatalities or serious injuries.
Hull was one of the worst-affected cities in the country during the Blitz and had to face air raids for longer than any other place in Britain.
Upon completion of the restoration, the cinema’s history will be shared, serving as an educational resource and a memorial space.
The refurbishment is anticipated to span approximately five months.