Recently I discovered the existence of a beautiful 1920s art deco cinema in a town not too far away from where I live.

Sadly, the only reason I found out about this cinema is because it is due to be demolished in order to build a supermarket car park.

The Regent Theatre in Hinckley (most recently used as a bingo hall) was built in 1929 and was used for films and live shows. Although the theatre has been used for a variety of purposes and has been disused for some time, it still retains many of its original art deco features.



Residents of Hinckley are now campaigning to save the building for community use. In order to save the building, an investment of around £1.2million to £1.4million will be necessary.

It's such a shame that these kinds of buildings can be lost so easily, all in the name of a car park. Of course the original architecture can't be replaced once it's gone. Although I understand the need for progress and modernisation, I wish that more of these historic buildings could be saved.


Some of the ideas that have been put forward for future uses for the building include live music, comedy shows, school plays, proms and weddings, to name just a few.

Unfortunately there are only a few days left in which to save this building, but there is a Facebook page here where you can find some more information, and you can 'Like' the page to show your support. If you wish to donate some money towards saving the theatre (and you can afford to do so), there is a page on indiegogo where you can contribute. There is also a video on the page which includes some photographs and further information about saving the theatre.

Read more: Hinckley Times //  BBC News