New name for Wolverhampton's new-look Light House cinema - this is what it will be called
A new name has been chosen for Wolverhampton's revamped Light House cinema.
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Work is gathering pace on updating the much-loved venue in the city's landmark Chubb Building, which closed in November 2022 after 35 years.
The new-look 8,000 sq ft venue will be known as Lockworks Cinema when it opens in the summer.
Experienced independent commercial operator, PDJ, is converting the council-owned space from a two-screen venue to a newly refurbished, state-of-the-art four-screen cinema.
The company has chosen the new name in tribute to the heritage of the venue’s Grade II listed home, which was once the headquarters of the famous Chubb Locks manufacturers.
Work began in January, and the cinema is on course to open to the public ahead of the summer school holidays, with three permanent and 20 part-time jobs being created.
PDJ, along with the council, is making a joint £2 million investment in the refurbishment of the venue, having taken on a 30-year lease. The company, which runs the Royal Cinema in Sutton Coldfield, is expecting to attract up to 130,000 visitors a year, boosting the city's economy by half a million pounds a year.
PDJ director James Jervis said he was delighted with the progress so far.
“Wolverhampton will have one of the very best boutique style, luxury cinemas in the country right in the heart of the city centre at an affordable price point," he said.
"We can’t wait to throw open the doors and welcome all film lovers before the start of the summer school holidays.
“We will have a fantastic line-up of films, from Superman to Smurfs and everything in-between. We’ll be bringing the best of what cinema can offer with blockbusters and independent film so there is something for everyone.”
Councillor Stephen Simkins, leader of Wolverhampton Council, said the company's transformation would bring an exciting attraction to the city centre.
“PDJ are suitably qualified cinema and entertainment experts and have a sound and sustainable plan that will further enhance our arts, culture and entertainment offer for residents and visitors to Wolverhampton," he said.
“It is all part of a transformation creating new destinations, better public spaces and inner-city living opportunities, coupled to a broader entertainment and events programme, to attract more visitors - helping both existing and new businesses to thrive and grow.”
Councillor Chris Burden, the council's cabinet member for city development, added: “Alongside the new cinema, the city centre will also be boosted by the imminent opening of a new leisure hub at the Mander Centre, anchored by Superbowl UK, and a new indoor climbing facility coming to the former Express & Star offices in Queen Street.
“Working alongside popular venues like the art gallery, Grand Theatre and University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, this will all drive footfall to support local businesses.”
