Revised planning proposals for The New Picture House in St Andrews, lodged by Savills on behalf of T-Squared Social, have been validated by St Andrews Planning.
T-Squared Social is backed by shareholders Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods, who already operate an established dining and entertainment venue in Manhattan.
The new proposals aim to ensure the long-term viability of the historic cinema, establishing the New Picture House as a social hub for St Andrews. Two of the three screens and 345 Cinema seats will be retained, including the main auditorium, with improvements being made to both seating and technology in order to improve customers’ viewing experience.
New dining and entertainment offerings will be created including a functional and flexible space encompassing a range of sports simulators such as golf, rugby, lacrosse and football.
The exterior of the building will remain unchanged, including the name above the door.
John Menzies of Savills Retail said: “Blending together Cinema, Food & Beverage and Entertainment uses is something we expect to see a lot more of in towns and Cities throughout the UK as operators respond to the major changes taking place in the industry. It is encouraging to see the cinema in St Andrews being saved from closure, and refurbished, by T-Squared Social as part of their investment plans for the building.”
Craig Gunderson of Savills Planning said: “Like many independent cinemas, The New Picture House has been faced with sharply falling customer numbers and was faced with a decision to close or adapt. The new plans will ensure alterations and enhancements to this listed and much loved 1930s building will celebrate the legacy and protect The New Picture House for generations to come.”
The new chapter for the venue will deliver enhanced employment and economic investment in the town.
The latest celebrity connection will add another pull factor to St Andrews, a town which is already famous for many reasons. St Andrews is home to the oldest and most iconic golf course in the world, the Old Course where the Open is played. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews is one of the most prestigious globally. The town is home to both Scotland’s oldest university and the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, a pilgrimage destination dating back to medieval times. St Andrews West Sands beach is located on the eastern coastline and is famous for the opening scenes of the film Chariots of Fire.