After failure of Curzon to deliver a cinema plans renewed for community based bid

There's renewed hope that a second community based plan for Acton's old Library could be successful, after the Curzon chain pulled out.

In 2014 Ealing council put out to tender the opportunity to develop the site and received five bids. Two proposed turning it into flats, one suggested flats above shops. Another plan was the creation of a community arts centre with a cinema space, theatre and a bar. The fifth, from Curzon Cinemas, was a three-screen cinema, along with a restaurant, bar and three flats on the top floor.

The popular bid to develop it into an arts centre was backed by many locals and stars but was rejected in favour of an arrangement with the cinema chain.

After months of silence it was finally announced last year that the deal was off, and a spokesperson from Ealing Council has now told Acton W3,“The council is currently remarketing the opportunity to build a cinema on the former Acton Library site after the previous developer pulled out of the project. There are a number of approaches from interested parties and further announcements on this will be made in the coming weeks. We are seeking bids that will enhance the regeneration of Acton, boost its night-time economy and help deliver on the potential of the area. There is scope for different uses in any prospective development subject to planning and financial viability.”

A public meeting will be taking place at the old Town Hall (Everyone Active Leisure Centre) 7.30pm on 21 February. All are invited to hear more about the local proposals for the site.

CANForum - the Neighbourhood Forum for Central Acton - will also be holding its AGM next Wednesday 21st February, at 7.30pm, at the Everyone Active Acton Centre, High St, W3 6NE.

CANForum is responsible for drawing up Central Acton's Neighbourhood Plan. This Plan will reflect the views of Central Acton residents and, once agreed by local referendum, will sit alongside Ealing Council's Local Plan and have a real influence over planning and development in our area.

A consultation exercise is underway and views can be made known via the website in the "Have your Say" section.

14 February 2018