Management for the Scala Cinema and Arts Centre in Prestatyn have confirmed it is set to be completed by next summer, following the resurgence of the Ffrith Beach Festival Gardens.
Newly-appointed project manager Catrin Jones was joined by Paul Murphy, Denbighshire County Council’s head of tourism, heritage and culture, at Prestatyn Town Council last Wednesday, where they reiterated how the project is on course for competition.
Ms Jones, who has a background in consultancy, said:
“Our contractors, RL Davies, are on track to finish by May 2008 and we will open for business next August. There was a delay for a couple of weeks due to the weather but otherwise everything is fine.
“We are now recruiting directors who we hope will have the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to help us in our preparations.
“We are planning to have some meetings with people from cinemas similar to the Scala to help us know what the best practices are.”
The Scala is set to reopen as a £3.4million multi-purpose cinema and arts facility, with its two screens to show new films and capable of seating 150 people.
Its premises will allow for flexible use, such as live stage performances, conferences, trade fairs and large meetings.
The reopening of the Scala will bring to an end a long-running battle by campaigners to have the High Street facility back in action, having closed due to safety concerns in December 2000.
Nigel Acott, Prestatyn town clerk, expressed concern at the council’s limited involvement at project review meetings, despite having helped secure the necessary funding for the Scala to reopen.
Mr Murphy said:
“It is important this project works. If the town council is desperate for it to work then from a personal point of view I do not see a problem with that (council representatives attending), but that is for the project board to decide.”
Ms Jones agreed to attend future council meetings to help update councillors on the Scala’s progress. Anyone interested in becoming an unpaid member of the board of directors is asked to call her on 01824 706253 for application details.
Source: Rhyl Journal News Article
