Developer Sterne Properties has announced that leading independent cinema chain, Curzon Cinemas will operate its Ripon cinema, restaurant and bar complex at North Street, Ripon.
Curzon Cinemas currently runs six cinemas in London including Mayfair and Chelsea and recently opened a new cinema at Knutsford, Cheshire. Ripon will soon be joining this exclusive postcode club and is Curzon’s first foray into the North East.
Simon Sterne for Sterne Properties commented:
I am absolutely delighted that we have reached a deal with Curzon who I strongly believe are the best possible company for taking our vision and ideas for the cinema and restaurant onto the next level. Curzon have been operating cinemas for more than 75 years and through their broad array of classic arthouse films combined with occasional mainstream releases and live events including opera, there will be plenty of entertainment for all interests. Furthermore, Curzon plan to operate the restaurant and bar including the vaulted basement bar with further offerings of comedy and live music to make this new venue a real ‘hive of activity’ within the City and a draw for people further afield.
Ripon residents will know, the development has not been an easy process for us particularly through the demise of our contractors last November and also as a result of the painfully slow process endured for bringing power into the building however, the announcement that Curzon will be taking a lease of the commercial space makes for a worthwhile end to all of the recent difficulties. We are aware that the cinema has attracted a great deal of interest locally and I would personally like to thank all of our local volunteers who have so enthusiastically embraced our plans for the cinema and made them their own.
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Philip Knatchbull, CEO of Curzon World said:
Curzon Cinemas couldn’t be more pleased to be opening a new cinema for the local community of Ripon. We will programme a variety of the best new film releases, alongside a vibrant restaurant, café and bar that we hope will become a regular destination for a discerning audience.
Ripon hasn’t had a cinema for 35 years. The cinema complex is currently being fitted out and is likely to open in July.
Information about the cinema including updates on the opening date can be found on the website: www.northsquarecinebar.co.uk
