We are delighted that the Picture House will get a £2.4 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund . This application involved a huge amount of work for cinema staff and supporters, aided by experienced consultants. The Friends financially supported the feasibility study work which started in 2015 and formed part of the application.

The Friends of the Hyde Park Picture House was officially formed in 1984 because of fears for the long term survival of the cinema. Now, in 2016, we are in the wonderful position of supporting the development phase to preserve this beautiful building, to better serve the existing community, and to reach out to new audiences. We will make sure that the views of our members are taken into account as plans develop.

It is hoped that the scheme will not only lead to restoration of the existing building but brand new accessible facilities. This includes fully accessible toilets, a second screen in the basement, a café-bar and a vibrant learning and heritage programme.

It was also heartwarming to see the response to the news on social media, click here to see a small selection of reactions.