Catford Mews was a hit with Lewisham's film-lovers
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Catford Mews, the only cinema in Lewisham, has abruptly closed after its landlord, the Catford Regeneration Partnership Limited (CRPL), repossessed the property.
This sudden closure has left the borough without a cinema, marking a considerable loss for the local community.
Situated in the Catford shopping centre, Catford Mews transformed an old Poundland store into a lively venue for films and community events when it opened four years ago.
The cinema quickly gained popularity, boasting three screens, a variety of independent food vendors, and a bar. Unfortunately, financial troubles triggered the closure of the cinema, and CRPL reported that Really Local Group, the operator, had accrued substantial debt.
According to a statement from Lewisham Council, CRPL made significant efforts to assist the Really Local Group, providing multiple chances for the business to recover. These efforts proved ineffective, resulting in the repossession of the cinema.
“Although we appreciate the contributions Catford Mews made to the local area, we can no longer bear the financial strain of supporting a tenant in distress,” the statement noted.
The council further revealed that CRPL is owed around £1.3 million from various tenants in the Catford Centre, which is set for future redevelopment. Additionally, CRPL reportedly owes £17 million to the council itself.
In response to the unexpected closure, Really Local Group expressed its dismay in a Facebook post. They claimed to have entered a ten-year agreement with the council earlier this year to manage financial arrears that had built up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, they accused the council of imposing demands for an upfront payment and failing to maintain effective communication, which derailed their plans.
“This cinema was more than just a commercial entity; it was a vital community space for workshops, screenings, and social gatherings,” their statement declared. “We are profoundly saddened by the council’s decision, which we believe is a significant setback for our community.”
In light of the closure, residents have launched a petition urging Lewisham Council to reconsider its decision, and Catford Mews has stated that ticket holders will automatically receive refunds for any pre-booked shows.
Former resident Ayesha Ellis tells us about her views on the closure, “It’s a big shame, it provided a community a hub for residents in the area which traditionally is an unprivileged area. It just goes to show how difficult it is for Catford to level up as an area and community in London.”
As the community processes the loss of Catford Mews, the future of cinema in Lewisham remains in limbo, leaving residents hopeful for future initiatives that could revive this important cultural asset.
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HeadlineCatford Mews: Lewisham’s only cinema closes its doors amid financial struggles
Short HeadlineLewisham’s only cinema closes its doors amid financial struggles
StandfirstWith Catford Mews now closed, residents face uncertainty over local entertainment options
Catford Mews, the only cinema in Lewisham, has abruptly closed after its landlord, the Catford Regeneration Partnership Limited (CRPL), repossessed the property.
This sudden closure has left the borough without a cinema, marking a considerable loss for the local community.
Situated in the Catford shopping centre, Catford Mews transformed an old Poundland store into a lively venue for films and community events when it opened four years ago.
The cinema quickly gained popularity, boasting three screens, a variety of independent food vendors, and a bar. Unfortunately, financial troubles triggered the closure of the cinema, and CRPL reported that Really Local Group, the operator, had accrued substantial debt.
According to a statement from Lewisham Council, CRPL made significant efforts to assist the Really Local Group, providing multiple chances for the business to recover. These efforts proved ineffective, resulting in the repossession of the cinema.
“Although we appreciate the contributions Catford Mews made to the local area, we can no longer bear the financial strain of supporting a tenant in distress,” the statement noted.
The council further revealed that CRPL is owed around £1.3 million from various tenants in the Catford Centre, which is set for future redevelopment. Additionally, CRPL reportedly owes £17 million to the council itself.
In response to the unexpected closure, Really Local Group expressed its dismay in a Facebook post. They claimed to have entered a ten-year agreement with the council earlier this year to manage financial arrears that had built up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, they accused the council of imposing demands for an upfront payment and failing to maintain effective communication, which derailed their plans.
“This cinema was more than just a commercial entity; it was a vital community space for workshops, screenings, and social gatherings,” their statement declared. “We are profoundly saddened by the council’s decision, which we believe is a significant setback for our community.”
In light of the closure, residents have launched a petition urging Lewisham Council to reconsider its decision, and Catford Mews has stated that ticket holders will automatically receive refunds for any pre-booked shows.
Former resident Ayesha Ellis tells us about her views on the closure, “It’s a big shame, it provided a community a hub for residents in the area which traditionally is an unprivileged area. It just goes to show how difficult it is for Catford to level up as an area and community in London.”
As the community processes the loss of Catford Mews, the future of cinema in Lewisham remains in limbo, leaving residents hopeful for future initiatives that could revive this important cultural asset.
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