£2m ‘boutique’ cinema and bar plans boosted
STEP CLOSER FOR PROJECT AS HALFWAY TO RAISING THEIR FUND TARGET
HOPES for a town’s new £2 million “boutique” cinema and bar have been boosted thanks to the generosity of supporters.
The Rutland Kino will be the first permanent cinema in Oakham and the wider county since the 1980s – and could even feature dedicated parent and baby screenings.
The project is the brainchild of two local residents – Andrew Robinson, retired chief executive of a cinema screens company, and former Oakham School student, Genevieve Margaret.
The pair are aiming to open a boutique cinema with a cafe, bar and lounge in the Victoria Hall, in the town’s High Street next year.
It will house two screens, with 89 seats in screen one and 30 seats in screen two.
Genevieve said: “There have been no issues raised during the pre-planning process and we can also now announce that we are halfway towards our investment target of
£2 million. There’s been such a positive reaction to the idea since we announced the plan a couple of months ago, which has been so encouraging.
“All of the investors are local people and it’s been fantastic to talk to residents about what they’d like to see from the space and discussing everything from film choices to accessibility needs and additional community opportunities.
“It’s also been heartening to hear from so many potential investors.”
The Rutland Kino directors are hoping to hit their fundraising target by the end of September in order to progress their project to the next phase and “be on track to open in late 2022”.
Andrew hopes the enthusiasm for the venture on the part of the local community will encourage further investment.
“Rutland Kino should appeal to local residents looking for an equity investment opportunity, which can also benefit their local community,” he said.
“The business is registered under the Enterprise Investment Scheme, which offers substantial tax benefits to investors.”
He added: “Ideally, individual investors will commit £50,000 but there is a place for smaller investors.
“For those interested there is a comprehensive business plan.”
To find out more, including how to get involved in the project, by visiting the website: