Cornerhouse partner to run Knutsford’s cinema

CHESHIRE East Council has named that film distribution company Curzon Cinemas as the operator of its new Knutsford Civic Centre and Studio cinema.

The council has signed a 25-year lease with Curzon, which employs aorund 150 staff and partners with Manchester’s prestigious arts cinema, The Cornerhouse, over the delivery of its programme.

The appointment follows a tendering process which drew lots of expressions of interest before a shortlist of three was finally chosen.

Currently, the Knutsford Civic Centre and Studio cinema is operated by the council, but it requires an annual subsidy of £65,000 and is not seen as a core service. From October, Curzon will operate the venue independently, paying an annual rent and also taking responsiblity for the building’s upkeep.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, Cheshire East’s cabinet member with responsibility for prosperity, said: “This is great news for Knutsford and Cheshire East and a real opportunity to bring in fresh ideas to improve the venue and attract wider community involvement.

“We wanted any prospective partners to share our enthusiasm for securing the future of cinema in Knutsford – and as a council we are confident we now have that.

“Curzon are a big name in film and entertainment and they are looking to invest to improve the facilities to match the expectations of today’s film-going audiences.”