Oxford City Council’s leader has raised concerns about a potential change of use at the city’s historic Ultimate Picture Palace cinema.
During Monday’s full council gathering on March 23, Susan Brown stated she wished to avoid circumstances where the council would be unable to determine an application regarding the venue on Jeune Street.
Those councillors assessing planning or change of use applications must remain neutral and cannot appear to have favoured any party.
If no unbiased councillor can be identified, the decision may be referred to another area’s planning committee instead.
In her opening remarks, council leader Susan Brown said she needed to alert members that Oriel College could potentially submit a planning application for a change of use of this site.
For any members serving on or potentially substituting for the planning committee or planning review committee, it is crucial to consider whether support given to such campaigns would prejudice or be seen to prejudice the open-minded assessment of any future applications.
She expressed that she did not want a situation where the council would be unable to determine such an application.
An Oriel College representative stated that the institution takes pride in its heritage cinema, the Ultimate Picture Palace, and is in discussions with the new managers about keeping it accessible to the public.
They have no current plans to extend the lease at this early stage of the tenancy.
Previously, the Labour politician had voiced her backing for preserving the cinema, recalling her own experiences watching films there ahead of May Morning.
Last week, a campaign was launched to rescue the UPP on Cowley Road from closure under the existing contract.
Landlord Oriel College, which forms part of the University of Oxford, will not extend the lease beyond 2037, according to UPP.
Instead, they wish to incorporate the Grade II listed building into their Fifth Quad development plans when the lease concludes.
As of Tuesday, March 24, approximately 15,000 individuals have signed the Save the Ultimate Picture Palace petition on Change.org.
Ms Brown stated that she is personally dedicated to seeing the UPP remain a community-owned cinema, a view she believes is shared by many both in the chamber and across the city.
Other notable supporters include Anneliese Dodds MP.
Dame Anneliese commented that the Ultimate Picture Palace holds historical uniqueness, cultural significance, and is cherished by local residents.
She expressed hope that Oriel College would pursue collaboration with UPP to secure the cinema’s long-term future in its distinctive building situated in the heart of East Oxford.
This would benefit local residents many of whom supported the cinema’s community ownership bid as well as the university and other local institutions.