£15,000 towards new cinema

Friday 14th March 2008, 5:59AM GMT.

The consortium planning to transform Wem’s mothballed town hall into a thriving community facility has secured more funding to bring a new cinema to the area.

A £15,000 handout from the UK Film Council will help create extra space and improved facilities if plans to breath new life into the hall are brought to fruition.

The modern building was closed in 2005, but the consortium, led by the town’s Thomas Adams School, wants to turn it into an arts and community centre.

Sue Gainsborough, from the school, said: “The Film Council will provide £15,000 for any works to include space in the hall for cinema provision.

“The money would also be used to improve access for people with hearing and visual impairments.”

Town councillor and former Wem mayor Peggy Carson said the news would be welcomed by everyone in the town.

The project has been boosted by North Shropshire District Council’s decision to hand over the freehold to Shropshire County Council for £1, with a view to a long-term lease being agreed.

Negotiations are still going on between the consortium, council and contractors.

View more: North Shropshire news.