Historic Oxford cinema demolished to make way for hotel

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 06:19 · Archive

Demolition is under way at Oxford's Odeon cinema on George Street to build a new hotel complex.

Demolition is now under way at the Odeon Oxford on George Street, which closed at the end of January to make way for a new hotel complex. The redevelopment has been described as controversial by local residents and media outlets.

The building has a long history. It was originally constructed as the Ritz Cinema in 1935–1936, replacing an earlier cinema from 1912. It was renamed the ABC cinema in 1963 and became the Odeon George Street in 2000, operating for decades under these various names.

Residents have expressed sadness at its closure. Richard Breakspear recalled 'queuing for premier showings, walking up those steps, seeing the red carpet, the ushers choosing some confectionery'. Victor Lee said the cinema was memorable because 'there were so many screens and plenty of different time slots'. Another resident, Julia Tamalge, called it 'sad, and what they call progress'.

How it is being reported

• Residents say farewell to historic cinema after demolitionDemolition work is now well under way at a former Oxford city centre cinema to create a new hotel complex.Oxford Mail · 10 Oct, 05:00
• Residents say farewell to historic cinema after demolitionDemolition work is now well under way at a former Oxford city centre cinema to create a new hotel complex.Oxfordshire Guardian · 10 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Odeon Oxford · George Street · Oxford

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