New cinema set for The Mailbox?

PLANS for a new multi-screen cinema to be created at Birmingham’s retail and lifestyle scheme, the Mailbox, are believed to be under consideration.

Rumours the multiplex would form part of the refurbishment of the centre has been rife for a while and it is understood the owner of the centre, Brockton Capital, is in talks with a potential operator.

The retrofit would be the second scheme of its kind to take place in the West Midlands. Plans have already been approved for a nine-screen facility to be incorporated into the Littleton Centre in the town centre.

While in competition with cineplexes in Broad Street and Five Ways, not to mention The Electric and the giant screen at Millennium Point, it is thought the retail and dining nightlife at the unique facility would be a major factor in helping to attract audiences.

The completion of New Street Station could also improve customer flow into the venue.

So far there has been no official comment on the scheme, however, it is thought the work could be dovetailed into The Mailbox’s ongoing refurbishment.

The retail area within the centre is being radically transformed in preparation for its relaunch in 2015. As part of the refurbishment, Harvey Nichols will more than double in size to a 45,000 sq ft unit at the heart of the premises.  

Plans designed by Stirling Prize winning architects Stanton Williams will see the entire retail mall enclosed and skylit.

L.K. Bennett, Jaeger and Gieves and Hawkes are already set to return in 2015, joining Harvey Nichols and Nicky Clarke.

Harvey Nichols, Emporio Armani, Toni and Guy Essensuals and BBC Birmingham will stay open throughout the refurbishment, along with the scheme’s bars, restaurants, hotels, commercial offices and car park.

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