Ritz Nuneaton

One of the few architectural gems of Nuneaton is approaching a new chapter in its history. The neglected brick bingo hall once served the town as lavish, Art Deco Ritz cinema starting in 1937- built by renowned architects Verity and Beverly famous for cinema design. From 1984 on, it became a Gala bingo hall until the franchise left town, leaving the building to the elements. Its £1.5 million asking price has been met by developers who hope to generate some capital out of the area.

We can only hope these investors are looking to respect this fine building from a revolutionary time in art and architecture. What really draws me to this story is my objection to big cinemas. I think cinema should be revitalised, becoming more social, cultured and independent; breaking away from the multiplex, out-of-town arcades that we seem left with. To see a local cinema in the heart of Nuneaton would inject the town with sophistication and give its people an alternative night out that did not involve stumbling through a piss-ridden nightclub.

But (ranting over), what can we expect from a revamped Ritz? There are some golden standards of the style such as the Grosvenor Cinema or Well Hall Odeon (both in London) that could add inspiration. I am convinced that if the work is put in, the Ritz building will become the best piece of architecture in the town and a huge asset to its culture.