Former Herne Bay high street cinema set for showtime once again
06:00, 10 July 2021
Plans to host shows at a former cinema-turned antiques shop have been given the green light despite fears of anti-social behaviour.
Councillors have voted through proposals to host evening performances – at which alcohol will be sold – in front of 150-strong crowds at Herne Bay High Street store Briggsy’s.
This is despite concerns raised by residents that loud music would disturb them late into the night and that the sale of alcohol on the site could spark disturbances.
At a licensing committee meeting, barrister Allen Worwood, representing site owners Carlo and Chris Monticolombi, tried to allay concerns by insisting “this is not going to be a Wetherspoon”.
“They are seeking to use the space in the premises to bring entertainment and family-friendly fun to the community,” he explained.
“Looking at the concerns raised with regards to anti-social behaviour, I would very gently say this is not going to be a Wetherspoon - no disrespect to Wetherspoon.
“In the event the odd person may be acting out of hand, the necessary measures will be put in place.
“It is a unique building, having been built originally for entertainment purposes. It is a great space crying out to be utilised.”
Mr Worwood's comments followed objections from residents living in nearby Mortimer Street who said their street was frequently the scene of "violent crime when the rear exit of the Wetherspoon close by was open".
But they noted "since the exit has been closed, the road has been very quiet at night".
The barrister claimed sound tests revealed that when music of 85 decibels was played in the building, which backs onto Mortimer Street, it could not be heard at an “unreasonable level” outside.
Neighbours also voiced concerns that the scheme would worsen parking issues in the town centre “by many degrees”.
One told the committee: “I went out to look at High Street and Mortimer Street – the double-yellow lines are absolutely wall to wall.
“There’s no parking capacity there whatsoever. The applicant is wanting to add to that problem by many degrees.”
However, councillors decided to give the proposals the go-ahead, allowing alcohol to be sold in the building between 6pm and 10pm only when performances are held.
Speaking after the meeting on Wednesday, Chris Monticolombi revealed that the performances – which can only take place on Fridays and Saturdays – will involve unsigned artists and tribute acts.
The businessman expects it to open on July 24, before hosting its first live event in September.
“During the day, it will be a farmers’ market selling local produce and an antiques emporium, with a café to the rear,” he said.
“When there’s a show on, we’ll move the stalls to the side and that will open up the floorspace.
“We’ve completely renovated the place – it looks amazing. Tens of thousands has been spent.
“We want to bring that hustle and bustle back to the venue so that it’ll be a place to visit for locals and visitors.”
Carlo and Chris Monticolombi snapped up the shop just before it was due to go under the hammer for as much as £525,000 at the beginning of May.
The historic building was erected in 1899 as it became the home of Washington Arcade for the next 12 years.
It opened as the Cinema de Luxe in 1911, but closed within months to undergo a major renovation.
The venue later reopened as the Bijou Theatre, screening films and hosting variety shows and concerts.
In 1936 it was taken over by the Union Cinemas chain – but closed the following year. It was a clothing factory for many years, before becoming Spender’s Arcade, and then Briggsy’s.
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