Worcester’s Historic Art Deco Cinema Listed for Sale

A significant Art Deco landmark in Worcester has been listed for sale with an asking price of £1.5 million. The former Northwick cinema, a Grade II listed building situated on Ombersley Road just outside the city centre, currently operates as a furniture store. Its proprietors have expressed their desire to relocate to a smaller premises, though they conceded they would miss conducting business in such a distinctive structure. Helen Gray, who co-manages Grays of Worcester with her husband David, commented, “I don’t think we’ll find somewhere that looks like this.” The Northwick Theatre first opened its doors in 1938, designed by Charles E. Wilford, while the interior was the creation of Art Deco designer John Alexander. A substantial portion of his original design remains visible. Mr. Gray stated, “This is his last surviving work anywhere in the country.” The building was subsequently converted into a cinema, and in 1966, it became a bingo hall, a role it maintained until its abandonment in 1982. It remained vacant until 1991, when a new owner reopened it as a live music venue, hosting bands including Cast and Shed Seven. Mr. and Mrs. Gray established their furniture shop in the building in 2004. “We had to completely restore it,” Mr. Gray explained. He added, “We had to work with British heritage, and we did it the best that we could do it. And I don’t think it could have been done any better.” Now that the Northwick is back on the market, its future purpose is a matter of anticipation. Mr. and Mrs. Gray suggested it could serve as a flagship building for a company or a music school. However, regardless of its next use, they hope that the future owners will respect the building’s rich history. “Everybody loves it,” Mr. Gray remarked. He continued, “They come in and it’s a proper wow factor because of the interior. It’s something special.”