CAMPAIGNERS are calling on councillors to reject a evangelical Christian group's "bizarre" plan to convert a historic cinema after a date was set for a planning decision.
A committee will meet on September 4 to consider an application from the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG) to turn the former EMD cinema in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, into a place of worship.
But the McGuffin Film Society, which has long campaigned for the grade II listed building to re-open for community use, said the latest proposal is not viable and does not have public support.
A previous UCKG scheme was rejected at a heated meeting last May, when hundreds of campaigners and church supporters turned out.
McGuffins spokesman said: "Residents have rejected UCKG’s plans time and again and we hope the council will continue to listen to public opinion on this issue.
"It is inconceivable that this bizarre hybrid scheme could be viable and it would certainly not have the broad public appeal or generate the same economic benefits as a properly revived entertainment venue".
McGuffins is supporting a plan proposed by the Waltham Forest Cinema Trust which would see the building re-opened as an entertainment venue.
An independent report has found a re-opened EMD would make a significant contribution to the regeneration of Walthamstow.
UCKG said its plan, which includes creating six small rooms where films can be screened, accommodation and a cafe, addresses previous concerns.
Paul Hill, UCKG property acquisitions manager, said: "We believe that the current application represents a fair and reasonable compromise for the future of the former Granada Cinema.
"The application is viable, and addresses the needs of all concerned.
"Despite what some suggest, we have listened to the community as well as to our locally-based adherents and are offering Walthamstow a fully-funded scheme."
The Planning Committee meeting will be held at Walthamstow Assembly Hall from 7.30pm and is open to the public.
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