THE BATTLE TO SAVE THE KENSINGTON ODEON: MAKE IT AN ASSET OF COMMUNITY VALUE

Some months ago the Hornet wrote about the OWNERS OF THE ODEON, a New York-based company that specialises in distressed property assets.
If you walk past the Odeon today you certainly see a distressing sight.  
Our much-loved Odeon looks battered and bruised as it is readied to be developed into yet another stack of multi-million pound flats for shady owners from countries you would not want your gap year children sending postcards from.
Democracy has gone very wrong in the Royal Borough when nearly 30,000 residents, objecting to the scheme, are ignored.
But can there be hope for this magnificent Art Deco cinema with a long and proud cinematic history?
It was, after all, Hitchcock's favourite cinema.

CLICK TO ENLARGE

This excellent article in yesterday's Sunday Times details an exciting plan and, as the supporters explain, "the creation of a new cutting edge multi-arts centre for the 21st century hosting and curating world-class theatre, film, dance, music and opera. A place where live cinematic performances will be at the heart of our agenda as well as honouring the auspicious past of this incredible building."

It's a big ambition, but the Dame's theatrical friends tell her that there is a huge appetite for theatres that can be adapted and flexibly configured to provide first class rehearsal space.
The Dame agrees. 
Please sign the petition and circulate to friends. Click HERE

We need more buildings, serving not just our Borough, but the wider national and international film and theatre community.
These are areas where the British excel in. 
Interestingly, in November, the Design Museum opens in the old Commonwealth building.
If the ambitions for the Odeon are fulfilled we could see a vibrant 'Creative Quarter' mirroring the 'Museum Quarter'

This is the moment for the Council to play its part by awarding this historic and much loved building the status of an Asset of Community Value