Final drive launched to raise funds to reopen historic Devon picture house

A final fundraising drive is underway to restore an historic cinema in Devon.

The Grade II-listed Paignton Picture House dates back to 1914 and was said to be Agatha Christie’s favourite cinema.

The Paignton Picture House Trust said about £1.4m is needed to complete the last phase of the £7m restoration project.

It is hoped main restoration and redevelopment work will start in autumn before the cinema reopens in two years time.

The trust say the cinema is thought to be the oldest surviving purpose-built picture house in Europe.

Project director Josephine Brown said it was a “pivotal moment” for the picture house.

The trust said the restored cinema would be a net-zero building, while also retaining period features such as its stained glass windows, a mosaic floor and distinctive circular front door.

A total of £5.6m towards the overall cost of the project has already been secured in the form of various government grants.