Council ‘open to exciting offers’ for Chubb Buildings cinema space

City of Wolverhampton Council has moved quickly to find a new operator for the city centre cinema within the historic and award-winning Grade II-listed Chubb Buildings.

Today (Tuesday), the council, as landlord, is joining forces with property specialists, Bruton Knowles, to launch a call out for expressions of interest from independent cinema operators and other creative organisations for the Fryer Street venue.

The council is also working closely with the Chubb Buildings landlord, MIA, who oversee a range of businesses and food and drink outlets already within the buildings.

After receiving the keys back from the previous tenants last month (February), the aim is for a new cinema or creative arts operator to take over the running of the two-screen, 6,625sqft space this summer.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: “We are determined to bring the space back into use as a cinema, creative arts or performance space as quickly as possible with an operator that can provide a sustainable offer. Clearly, it’s already designed to be used as a cinema so we are particularly keen to speak to operators in this field whilst also keeping an open mind to other creative and cultural uses of this brilliant space.

“We are open to exciting offers for this leisure opportunity in our city that will further enhance our arts, culture and entertainment offer for residents and visitors to Wolverhampton.

“And as we’ve shown before, we’re prepared to offer ongoing support to operators – negotiable of course. Support will be dependent on seeing a commercially sound, sustainable and compelling case put forward.”

James Carey of Bruton Knowles added: “We are confident there will be strong demand from potential occupiers for the Chubb Cinema, which presents a great opportunity to add to the enviable cultural pedigree Wolverhampton already has.

“The city centre is undergoing major transformation and the independent cinema occupier will benefit from being at the heart of a growing commercial and cultural district, award-winning transport Interchange and a blossoming residential offer.”

Sarah Warnes, MIA Property Manager, said: “The Chubb Buildings already boast a fantastic offer of businesses, food and drinks outlets and we are fully supportive of the council’s plan to bring the space back into use as either a cinema or other creative arts or entertainment venue.
“With the right business model, the potential operator can thrive alongside the other businesses in this historic venue.”

In the interests of securing a first-class operator and offer, the council is prepared to discuss flexible lease terms and will work with the successful party to attract additional investment and grant support to ensure a sustainable business model is in place.

Expressions of interest in the Chubb Cinema are invited by 5pm on May 9, 2023. To register your interest and request a copy of the bid proforma please contact julie.mills@brutonknowles.co.uk