Application to demolish cinema submitted to council

A planning application has been submitted to North Northamptonshire Council regarding the proposed demolition of the Odeon cinema in Kettering’s town centre. The council is now tasked with deciding on these plans. In response to the potential closure, film enthusiasts convened earlier this month to protest the prospective loss of the establishment. Augur Group, the building’s owner, stated that attendance figures had “dropped significantly” over the last five years, rendering the cinema “no longer viable,” and confirmed its closure early next year. The cinema, which commenced operations in the 1990s and is situated on the leisure park adjacent to the A14, faces substantial industry challenges, according to its owner, Augur Group. These challenges include the effects of the pandemic and the proliferation of streaming services. Furthermore, the group indicated that competition from the Cineworld located at Rushden Lakes has “compounded” the difficulties experienced in Kettering. Labour MP for Kettering, Rosie Wrighting, expressed that she was “extremely concerned” by the development in August. Odeon confirmed its intention to vacate the premises by February 2025, prioritizing support for its employees impacted by the impending closure. The proposed demolition also encompasses Hobson’s Choice, a pub situated nearby.