Capitol Plaza wins community asset status

Scarborough's Capitol Plaza has been recognised as an asset of community value by North Yorkshire Council.

The Grade II listed venue on Albemarle Crescent opened in 1929 as the town's first "talkie" cinema and later became home to Mecca Bingo.

The Capitol Theatre Trust hopes to transform the building into a receiving house theatre capable of hosting major touring productions alongside a range of community facilities.

Trust director George Wakely said: "Just as Mecca Bingo once served as a lifeline for the community, we want the Capitol to continue that legacy."

North Yorkshire Council confirmed the successful nomination on Tuesday.

The designation recognises the venue's community value and could give the community an opportunity to bid for the building if it is put up for sale.

Plans for the building include a community cafe, accessible facilities, low-cost rehearsal and meeting rooms and creative workspaces.

A public consultation is due to begin on 19 September.

Wakely said: "Whilst we're fortunate to have strong cultural venues like the Open Air Theatre, the Stephen Joseph Theatre and the Spa, none can accommodate the scale or technical requirements of major UK tours.

"Our aim isn't to compete with existing venues, but to complement them with something Scarborough currently lacks."

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Scarborough once had 11 theatres and music halls, but only four remain in operation.

The Capitol later became a Mecca Bingo hall, which occupied the building from 1977 until it closed amid concerns about its condition.

Following a site visit in July, council officers said the venue was "well-known within the local area", had historic and cultural significance and continued to attract support from residents.

Officers added that the trust's proposals appeared "positive in principle" and aligned with community-focused objectives.

Wakely said the trust hoped to complete the final phase of the redevelopment and reopen the venue in October 2029, 100 years after the Capitol first opened its doors.

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