The Regal Cinema, Chingford redevelopment moves step closer

The Regal Cinema closed down in 1963 and became a bingo hall before falling into disrepair.

The building, in Hale End Road, first opened in April 1911 as the Highams Park Electric Theatre, before becoming The Regal in 1935.

Updated plans to restore the cinema were approved by Waltham Forest Council on June 19.

They come after an initial application by Mammoth Construction was green-lit last July.

Waltham Forest Council said in a newsletter it expects building work to start later this year.

The plans were submitted by Weedon Architects on behalf of Mammoth Construction in February last year and detail the "restoration and redevelopment of The Regal Cinema and adjoining site, including the demolition of the adjoining extensions to the historic element".

CGI of how the new Regal Cinema could look (Image: Mammoth Construction) The ground floor will hold the cinema with two screens as well as a "cafe bar" whilst 33 homes will be built on the floors above.

A total of 18 of these homes will be one bedroom whilst 15 will be two bedroom.

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A planning document described the empty premises as being in "a poor state of disrepair and an eyesore in the local area".

It said the proposal for a new cinema and café would create "activity along a shopping street and would therefore represent a positive contribution to the amenity, character and function of the centre.

​"The proposal would provide a social infrastructure facility (cinema) for the use of the local community.

CGI of how the new Regal Cinema could look (Image: Mammoth Construction)"It would also provide employment and training opportunities within the local area.

"The provision of 33 new residential units is considered to be a sustainable form of development, that is promoted in town centre locations."

In 1935 when The Regal Cinema opened, the building received a "modern art deco style façade and entrance foyer" and according to planning documents these will be "retained and restored".

This element of the building contains the features of architectural merit that led to the building being locally listed.

The plans involve the demolition of the existing building behind the façade, which will be retained due to its "local architectural interest and contribution to the character of the district centre".

The existing single storey extensions along the east side of The Regal will be demolished.