PLANS to extend the historic home of Penistone Paramount by using a part of the town hall have been approved by the council.
Penistone Town Hall which houses the cinema had suffered numerous leaks, pushing Barnsley Council to remove and entirely replace the roof.
Plans were submitted in September to continue the iconic venue’s upgrade by adding a second screening room with seating for up to 50, including accessible wheelchair spaces.
Introducing this extra capacity would mean the Paramount could offer blockbuster film releases similar to other multi-screen cinemas.
It would allow two films to be screened simultaneously and enable the cinema to offer a more diverse range of screenings such as National Theatre Live and smaller independent films.
The works would see the cinema’s facilities improved throughout, with a new cafe, bar, box office and concession stand located in the front section of the Shrewsbury Road building.
Planned redecoration of the public areas are also said to be in keeping with the period features of the historic building, including retaining the coloured stained glass roof light as a focal point.
A report states: “The redevelopment works will increase the cinema offer with the addition of a second 44-seat screen, located in the rear portion of the existing town hall.
“The new screen will enable two films to be shown simultaneously, as well as longer feature showings, which will allow the Paramount to capture more blockbuster films on the same release dates as other national multi-screen operators.
“It will also give them flexibility to show more live ballet and opera events, as these are currently only shown where there are gaps in the feature film schedule.
“In contrast to the traditional cinema experience offer of the existing Paramount, the new screen will provide a more luxury, modern experience with larger comfy seating and an ‘at seat’ drinks/snacks service.
“The space will also be multifunctional, providing a venue for other events such as live poetry reads and guest speakers, as well as being available for private hire.
“The wider cinema facilities will also be improved as part of the scheme including a new café/bar, box office and concession stand located in the front section of the town hall.
“New toilets will be created in the existing concession space and in the new foyer to serve the additional screen and the cafe/bar.
“The existing bar in the main auditorium will be retained for occasional use during live music events.”
The plans were approved earlier this week.
