Historic cinema's future secured by £500k funding
Westmorland and Furness CouncilA cinema once at risk of closure has been given a £500,000 funding lifeline.
A few years ago, the future of the Roxy in Ulverston, Cumbria, seemed uncertain after it had languished on the market for some time without a buyer.
But it was eventually purchased in 2023 by The Roxy Collective, a group of campaigners who wanted to protect, preserve and restore the historic 87-year-old building.
Its chair Suzy Garnett said: "The Roxy has been a cornerstone of our community for generations, and this investment ensures that it remains a vibrant space for arts, culture, and connection for years to come."
The £0.5m grant to The Roxy Collective comes via the £452m Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, a regional investment programme tly ed by the UK and Scottish governments and local partners.
The money will see the Roxy further modernised and refurbished, continuing work previously made possible by a grant from the Community Ownership Fund.
The building is also home to a museum dedicated to Hollywood comedy legends Laurel and Hardy - Stan Laurel having been born in the town in 1890 - along with a gym and an independent film and TV company.
Ms Garnett added: "We are incredibly grateful to the Borderlands Committee and the Ulverston Town Team for their , which allows us to continue the much-needed development work on our beloved Roxy.
"And, as always, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the community for its unwavering .
"Your ion and dedication are what keep the Roxy alive."
The Roxy CollectiveCouncillor Virginia Taylor, Westmorland and Furness Council cabinet member for sustainable communities, said: "This grant funding is great news for the Roxy Collective, Ulverston and the wider area."
She also praised the collective's "tenacity and vision is securing a future for a fabulous building".
The Roxy Collective will be holding an open evening in the near future for of the public to find out more about the plans.